Defence Ministry Secures Rs 5,300 Crore Deal With Bharat Electronics Ltd for Electronic Fuzes

The Ministry of Defence, on Friday, solidified a monumental deal worth over Rs 5,300 crore with the state-run Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) for the procurement of electronic fuzes, a pivotal component of medium to heavy calibre artillery guns. These fuzes play a critical role in providing sustained artillery firepower for military operations.

The procurement specifically targets artillery guns capable of engaging lethally across diverse terrains, including high-altitude areas along the northern borders. The primary objective of this strategic project is to bolster ammunition stocks, consequently reducing reliance on imports and aligning with the overarching goal of achieving self-sufficiency.

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The landmark contract, signed on December 15, spans a decade and falls within the ambit of the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ vision. The contract is categorized under the ‘manufacture of ammunition for the Indian Army by Indian industry,’ a government initiative tailored to meet the long-term requirements of the armed forces.

This initiative serves a multi-faceted purpose, aiming not only to attain self-sufficiency in ammunition manufacturing but also to acquire critical technologies and secure stock against disruptions in the supply chain. Bharat Electronics Ltd will take charge of manufacturing the electronic fuzes, utilizing its facilities in Pune and the upcoming Nagpur Plant.

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Beyond its strategic significance, the project is anticipated to yield positive socio-economic outcomes. The Ministry of Defence estimates that the initiative will generate employment for approximately one-and-a-half lakh man-days. Moreover, it is poised to foster active participation from a spectrum of Indian industries, including MSMEs, thereby contributing to the broader expansion of the ammunition manufacturing ecosystem within the country. This concerted effort aligns with national security imperatives while concurrently promoting economic growth and self-reliance in critical defense capabilities.