Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has received orders worth Rs. 1,150 Crores till date during the financial year 2024-25. The orders demonstrate the Government of India’s intent to boost India’s security and strengthen defence forces with the latest and upgraded weapon systems.

As per the details shared by BEL, which is a government-owned Navaratna DPSU, the major orders include AMC (Annual Maintenance Contract) of Akash Missile System, Combat Management System for ships, Missile Fire Control System for ships, Laser Range Finders, Communication Network Centre, etc.

The fresh orders from the Ministry of Defence will boost BEL’s revenue forecast for the year ahead.

It is important to note that India is rapidly enhancing its defence capabilities through various modernization projects. Here are some key developments:

1. Artillery and Rockets:
   • The Indian military is inducting upgraded Pinaka rocket regiments and longer-range BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles.
   • It has already received 110 of 145 M-777 ultra-light howitzers from the US, with the rest to be delivered soon.
2. Advanced Munitions and Drones:
   • Loitering munitions (man-portable drones) capable of silent hovering and precision strikes are being introduced.
   • The armed forces are also acquiring runway-independent unmanned aircraft systems and enhanced surveillance capabilities.
3. Assault Rifles and Self-Propelled Howitzers:
   • The Indian Army has received its first batch of 70,000 AK 203 assault rifles from Russia.
   • Plans include procuring 670,000 rifles, with 600,000 to be manufactured in India.
   • Additionally, 200 new K-9 Vajra self-propelled howitzers are expected to be ordered.
4. Emerging Technologies:
   • The Indian Army is exploring directed energy weapons (DEWs) such as laser-directed energy weapons (LDEWs) and high-power microwave weapons (HPMWs).
   • These technologies have applications in anti-aircraft defence, anti-tank warfare, and anti-satellite warfare.

India’s defence forces are actively investing in cutting-edge weaponry to bolster their capabilities and address security challenges.