Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a defence public sector undertaking (PSU), and French firm Safran Electronics & Defence have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to establish a joint venture in India for the manufacturing, customization, sales, and maintenance of the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision-guided air-to-ground weapon. The agreement was formalized at Aero India 2025 on Wednesday in Bengaluru.
HAMMER is a combat-proven, high-precision weapon system known for its modular design, making it adaptable for multiple platforms, including the Rafale and LCA Tejas fighter jets.
Commenting on the collaboration, BEL Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Jain said, “The proposed joint venture between BEL and Safran Electronics & Defence will be a major step toward strengthening India’s capabilities in defence manufacturing and achieving self-reliance in advanced weapon systems. It will localise HAMMER production, enable development of future variants and support the Government of India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative by reducing import dependence”.
Safran Electronics & Defense CEO Franck Saudo echoed similar sentiments, stating, “This joint venture marks an important milestone for Safran Electronics & Defence. By combining Safran’s expertise with BEL’s capabilities in smart precision-guided munitions, we are supporting India’s defence efforts while reinforcing Safran’s industrial presence in India.”
The joint venture will also establish a Center of Excellence focused on enhancing India’s defence capabilities as part of the agreement. This centre will drive joint manufacturing, engineering, and maintenance services for the Indian armed forces, including operational maintenance, repairs, and overhauls of optronics and navigation equipment. Safran will implement a knowledge transfer program, with production being phased in, while BEL will lead final assembly, testing, and quality assurance.
The initiative is expected to bolster India’s self-reliance in advanced weapon systems and contribute to the growing Indigenous defence ecosystem.
Ravi Shankar
