New Delhi: In a major push toward strengthening India’s indigenous defence ecosystem, the Ministry of Defence has signed a ₹1,950 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the procurement of two advanced Mountain Radar systems for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
The agreement, signed in New Delhi, marks a significant milestone in enhancing India’s air defence capabilities, particularly in high-altitude and mountainous regions.
Key Highlights of the Defence Contract
The project has been awarded under the Buy (Indian–Indigenously Designed, Developed and Manufactured) category, reinforcing the government’s commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India initiatives.
- Contract Value: ₹1,950 crore
- Equipment: Two advanced Mountain Radar systems
- End User: Indian Air Force (IAF)
- Category: Buy (Indian–IDDM)
- Signing Date: March 31, 2026
- Execution Scope: Manufacturing, supply, installation, and commissioning
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Indigenous Technology at the Core
The Mountain Radar systems have been indigenously designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) through its premier lab, the Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE).
Bharat Electronics Limited will handle the complete execution of the project, including:
- Manufacturing of radar systems
- Supply and deployment
- Installation and commissioning
- Integration with associated infrastructure
This collaboration highlights India’s growing capability in developing advanced defence technologies domestically.
Enhancing Air Defence in Mountainous Regions
The Mountain Radar systems are specifically designed for high-altitude and rugged terrain operations, where conventional surveillance systems often face limitations.
Once operational, these radars will:
- Provide continuous and reliable surveillance
- Enable early detection of aerial threats
- Improve situational awareness for defence forces
- Strengthen rapid response capabilities of the Indian Air Force
Their deployment is expected to significantly enhance India’s preparedness in strategically sensitive border regions.
Strengthening Self-Reliance in Defence
This procurement aligns with India’s long-term strategy to reduce dependence on foreign defence imports and build a robust domestic manufacturing ecosystem.
Key benefits include:
- Promotion of indigenous design and innovation
- Boost to domestic defence manufacturing
- Increased participation of MSMEs and ancillary industries
- Generation of employment opportunities
The project is a step forward in building a self-reliant and technologically advanced defence sector.
Strategic Significance for India’s Security
With evolving geopolitical challenges, strengthening surveillance and early warning systems has become critical. The Mountain Radar systems will play a vital role in securing India’s airspace, particularly in difficult terrains where threats are harder to detect.
This deal underscores the government’s continued focus on modernising defence infrastructure while promoting indigenous capabilities.
About Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL)
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is a leading Navratna public sector enterprise under the Ministry of Defence, specialising in advanced electronic systems for the Indian Armed Forces. The company plays a crucial role in areas such as radar systems, communication equipment, electronic warfare, and homeland security solutions. BEL has been at the forefront of India’s push for indigenous defence manufacturing and technological innovation.
