Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and French defence giant Safran have signed a big deal to make the advanced HAMMER air-to-surface missiles right here in India. This 50-50 joint venture means India will soon produce one of the world’s smartest precision weapons locally.
The HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is already used on India’s Rafale fighter jets. It can hit targets up to 70 km away with pinpoint accuracy and works even if GPS is jammed. Pilots love it because they can change the guidance system laser, GPS, or infrared just before launch.
Under the new agreement, a fresh Indian company will handle everything from manufacturing to repairs. BEL will take care of final assembly and testing, while Safran will slowly transfer the technology. Over time, 60% of the missile’s parts will be made in India.
This move will save money, create thousands of skilled jobs, and make the Indian Air Force and Navy stronger and faster. It also fits perfectly with Prime Minister Modi’s “Make in India” dream in defence.
Its one of the biggest tech-transfer deals with France in years. BEL shares jumped more than 2% in morning trade, showing how much the market likes the news.
Sources:
- The Hindu: BEL, Safran sign JV to manufacture precision-guided weapon
- The Economic Times: India’s BEL, France’s Safran launch equal-share JV to produce precision air-to-ground weapons
- Business Today: BEL stock in focus: Defence PSU signs JV with France’s Safran for HAMMER weapons
- Bharat Shakti: BEL–Safran JV to Manufacture HAMMER Missile in India
- IDRW: BEL and Safran Join Hands to Manufacture HAMMER Precision-Guided Weapon in India
