The Ministry of Defence has entered into a $287.36 million contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to acquire state-of-the-art Electronic Warfare (EW) Suites, aircraft modification kits, and related equipment for installation on Mi-17 V5 helicopters operated by the Indian Air Force (IAF). This landmark deal marks a major step forward in enhancing the operational survivability of IAF helicopters in hostile environments.
According to the official statement, the EW Suite represents a significant leap in indigenous capabilities and aligns with India’s “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiative and the “Make-in-India” program. The majority of sub-assemblies and components for these suites will be sourced from local manufacturers, fostering the active participation of India’s electronics and related industries, including micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs).
The contract falls under the “Buy Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured” category and was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. BEL emphasized that this agreement highlights the company’s commitment to delivering advanced technologies while supporting India’s self-reliance in defense systems.
The announcement follows BEL’s $71.3 million contract signed with the IAF last week to provide maintenance services for the Akash Missile System. BEL had previously supplied the Akash Missile System to the IAF and has now secured its maintenance contract, demonstrating a strong and enduring partnership with India’s defense forces.
Additionally, BEL revealed ongoing negotiations with customers for new orders worth $600 million, reinforcing its position as a reliable defense PSU. The company achieved a turnover of approximately $2.76 billion during the Financial Year 2024-25, reflecting a 16 percent growth compared to the previous year’s turnover of $2.37 billion. Export sales accounted for $106 million, showing a 14 percent increase from $92.98 million recorded the previous year.
In FY 2024-25, BEL secured orders worth $2.3 billion. Key acquisitions include upgrades to BMP II, Ashwini Radar, Software-Defined Radios, Data Links, Multi-Function Radars, EON 51, Seekers, Anti-Drone Systems, Airport Surveillance Radars, Sonar Upgradation, Flycatcher Spares, Radar Upgradation, and other projects across defense and non-defense sectors. As of April 1, 2025, BEL’s total order book stands at approximately $8.74 billion, including an export order book valued at $359 million.
BEL also reported a 47.3 percent growth in net profit for the third quarter ending December 2024, with earnings reaching $158.8 million compared to $107.9 million during the same period in the previous year.
The latest developments reflect BEL’s robust growth trajectory and its continued contribution to India’s defense infrastructure and technological advancement. With these achievements, BEL is poised to strengthen India’s position as a global leader in defense manufacturing.
