New Delhi: In a major boost to India’s Make in India defence initiative, India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, signed a landmark agreement with Safran Electronics & Defense to manufacture two high-precision, combat-proven systems locally. The move marks a significant step in strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem while enhancing operational readiness of the Indian Army.
Agreement Signed in Presence of Defence Secretary
The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in New Delhi by Mr. Tushar Tripathi, Chairman and Managing Director of IOL, and Mr Alexandre Ziegler, Head of the Defence Global Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense. The signing ceremony was witnessed by Mr. Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary of Defence Production.
This collaboration builds on a prior MoU signed in January 2024 and expands the scope to include local manufacturing, final assembly, testing, quality assurance, and complete life-cycle support of the two systems.
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Advanced Systems to be Manufactured in India
The partnership focuses on two critical defence systems:
- SIGMA 30N Digital Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System: Used in artillery guns, air defence systems, missiles, and radar platforms, this system enhances precision targeting and navigation capabilities for ground forces.
- CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight: Designed for artillery guns and anti-drone systems, the sight provides accurate targeting and operational efficiency in combat scenarios.
Through this collaboration, IOL will be responsible for all aspects of production and quality assurance, ensuring these advanced systems meet the stringent operational requirements of the Indian Army.
Strengthening India’s Defence Manufacturing and Self-Reliance
By combining IOL’s industrial capabilities with Safran’s expertise in inertial navigation and fire-control technology, the partnership is expected to significantly advance India’s indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities. This initiative aligns with the government’s vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat, fostering self-reliance in high-end defence technologies and reducing dependence on imports.
About India Optel Limited (IOL)
India Optel Limited (IOL) is a Mini Navratna Public Sector Undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, specializing in high-precision optical, electronic, and electro-optic systems for the armed forces. With a focus on innovation, quality, and indigenization, IOL contributes to enhancing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem while supporting operational readiness across land, air, and naval forces.
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