The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by Mr K V Suresh Kumar, Director (Marketing) at BEL, and Mr Alexandre Ziegler, Executive Vice President of Safran Electronics & Defense. The signing took place in the presence of senior representatives from both companies, including BEL’s Chairman and Managing Director, Mr Manoj Jain, and Safran Electronics & Defense’s CEO, Mr Franck Saudo.
BEL and Safran Electronics & Defense aim to establish a Centre of Excellence as part of this partnership, focusing on joint industrial activities such as manufacturing, engineering, and maintenance services. This will include operational support, repairs, and overhauls of optronics and navigation equipment for the Indian armed forces. Safran will facilitate knowledge transfer, while BEL will take the lead in final assembly, testing, and quality assurance.
According to BEL, the joint venture will contribute to India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (Self-Reliant India) initiative by enhancing local production capabilities and creating opportunities for Indian industries, including small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Safran Electronics & Defense stated that the partnership aligns with India’s “Make in India” programme and will strengthen both India’s defence capabilities and Safran’s industrial presence in the country.
The HAMMER weapon system is a precision-guided munition with a modular design, allowing for adaptation to multiple aircraft platforms, including the Rafale and LCA Tejas.
