Bengaluru: Raksha Mantri Mr. Rajnath Singh visited Bharat Electronics Limited today, inaugurating a state-of-the-art Missile Integration Facility and flagging off the 3rd and 4th Akash Regiment Combat Systems. He also unveiled the Mountain Fire Control Radar, reinforcing India’s push for indigenous defence technology.
In a simultaneous remote ceremony from Pune, Mr. Singh inaugurated the Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence (CoE-AI) and formally launched BEL’s AI Policy, highlighting the growing role of AI and cutting-edge technologies in national defence.
Focus on Advanced Indigenous Defence Technologies
During his visit, Mr. Rajnath Singh was briefed on BEL’s range of indigenous innovations, including AI-driven solutions developed by Indian start-ups. Key areas showcased included:
- Electronic warfare systems
- Avionics and tank electronics
- Naval platforms and weapon control systems
- Electro-optics and radar systems
“The network-centric capabilities of BEL’s integrated systems, combined with real-time data sharing and decision-support tools, are significantly enhancing India’s combat effectiveness,” Mr. Singh noted.
Ongoing R&D and Strategic Programmes
The Defence Minister reviewed BEL’s ongoing research aligned with critical national programmes such as:
- Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile Systems (QRSAM)
- Light Combat Aircraft Mark II (LCA Mk II)
- Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA)
- Project Kusha (MR SAM/LR SAM)
- Counter-drone systems
- Naval weapon control systems
Mr. Singh highlighted that indigenous R&D strengthens operational readiness across land, air, and naval domains, reduces reliance on foreign technology, and meets world-class standards.
Indigenous Systems Proven in Field Operations
The Raksha Mantri praised the operational success of India’s indigenously developed systems:
“India’s air defence and anti-drone systems effectively neutralised threats during Operation Sindoor. Integration of AI in early warning and response mechanisms provides soldiers with enhanced confidence on the battlefield,” he said.
He emphasized that victory with indigenous technology ensures true self-reliance and strategic assurance for the armed forces.
AI and Quantum Technologies: Shaping the Future of Defence
Mr. Singh stressed the critical role of AI and quantum computing in modern warfare, including autonomous systems, cyber defence, real-time decision-making, and precision operations.
He urged BEL, other DPSUs, and private industry partners to collaborate with start-ups, academia, and R&D teams for rapid prototyping and agile product development, supporting the vision of a Viksit Bharat.
Showcasing Innovation and Start-Up Collaboration
BEL showcased innovations from its:
- Central Research Laboratories
- Centres of Excellence in Electronic Warfare, Photonics, Communication, Radar & Weapon Systems
- Product Development & Innovation Centre
Start-ups and industry partners also demonstrated advanced indigenous solutions. Mr. Singh interacted with young scientists and entrepreneurs, encouraging them to push the boundaries of defence technology.
About Bharat Electronics Limited
Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is a premier Government of India enterprise specializing in defence electronics and strategic systems. The company develops and manufactures advanced solutions for the armed forces, including radar systems, missile electronics, avionics, and electronic warfare platforms, while fostering innovation and collaboration with start-ups and industry partners.
