India Boosts Indigenous Defence with New Radar Contract

The Indian Ministry of Defence has signed a Rs 2,906 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited for Low-level Transportable Radar. Designed by DRDO, this radar boosts the Indian Air Force's capabilities. Navy Chief Tripathi praised BEL's state-of-the-art advancements, marking a move towards self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

In a significant move to bolster indigenous defence capabilities, India's Ministry of Defence has signed a capital acquisition contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), based in Ghaziabad. This Rs 2,906 crore agreement covers the procurement of Low-level Transportable Radar (LLTR) systems, known as Ashwini, designed and developed by DRDO's Electronics and Radar Development Establishment.

The signing took place in New Delhi on March 12, 2025, with Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh present. The LLTR (Ashwini) radar employs cutting-edge solid-state technology and an active electronically scanned phased array to track various aerial targets. This acquisition is poised to significantly enhance the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force, reflecting a commitment to reducing reliance on foreign-manufactured defence equipment and fostering the domestic defence industry.

In related developments, Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Indian Navy, toured several Bharat Electronics Limited facilities, receiving briefings on the company's advanced defence systems for the navy. During his visit, Tripathi acknowledged BEL's contributions to the Indian defence ecosystem, highlighting their adherence to Automation Quality 4.0 and Industry 4.0 standards.

(With inputs from agencies.)