The Indian Navy has signed a significant contract with M/s Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, for the implementation of the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project, aimed at enhancing maritime and coastal security. The agreement was formalised in the presence of Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti, Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff, and Mr. Manoj Jain, Chairman and Managing Director of BEL.
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Integrated Approach to Maritime Surveillance
The NMDA Project is designed to establish a comprehensive and integrated system for data collation, analysis, and real-time information sharing among various maritime stakeholders. It will lead to a stronger and more responsive maritime security architecture, addressing emerging threats and challenges in India’s vast maritime domain.
AI-Enabled System and Network Upgrade
Under the project, the existing National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network will be upgraded to a state-of-the-art NMDA Network. The enhancement includes the deployment of Artificial Intelligence-enabled software that will significantly improve situational awareness and decision-making capabilities.
IMAC to Become Multi-Agency NMDA Centre
A major component of the project involves the upgradation of the Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) at Gurugram. Currently serving as the nodal hub of the NC3I Network, IMAC will be transformed into a Multi-Agency NMDA Centre, bringing together representatives from several national security and maritime agencies to foster joint coordination and rapid response.
Turnkey Project Execution
The NMDA Project will be executed on a ‘Turnkey Basis’ and administered by the Indian Navy, ensuring timely and comprehensive implementation across India’s maritime zones.
This collaboration between the Indian Navy and BEL marks a major leap in India’s efforts to ensure maritime safety, surveillance, and strategic dominance in the Indian Ocean Region.
About BEL
Founded in 1954 and headquartered in Bengaluru, Bharat Electronics Limited is a state-owned electronics giant known for its expertise in radar, avionics, electronic warfare, and secure communications. It operates under the Ministry of Defence and is one of India’s nine Navratna PSUs.
