Rajnath Singh Inaugurates BEL Missile Hub, Pushes AI-Led Defence Modernisation

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday inaugurated a new Missile Integration Facility at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in Bengaluru, marking a significant addition to the country’s indigenous defence manufacturing infrastructure.

During the visit, Singh flagged off the combat systems of the third and fourth regiments of the Akash missile system and unveiled the Mountain Fire Control Radar. He also remotely inaugurated BEL’s Centre of Excellence for Artificial Intelligence in Pune and formally launched the company’s Artificial Intelligence policy.

The Minister was briefed on a range of advanced technologies developed by BEL, including AI-enabled systems and solutions created in collaboration with Indian start-ups, according to the official statement. Senior officials outlined progress in areas such as electronic warfare, avionics, naval systems, electro-optics and tank electronics.

Addressing scientists and engineers, Singh said BEL’s integrated systems have strengthened network-centric operations through real-time data sharing and decision-support capabilities. He noted that such capabilities have enhanced the armed forces’ combat effectiveness.

Officials informed him that BEL’s research and development efforts are aligned with key national programmes, including the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), Light Combat Aircraft Mk-II, Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA), Project Kusha (medium- and long-range surface-to-air missile systems), counter-drone systems and naval weapon control systems.

The briefing highlighted that indigenous R&D is contributing to operational readiness across land, air, naval and strategic domains, while reducing reliance on imports. Singh said systems developed for airspace defence and counter-drone operations have demonstrated that Indian solutions can match global standards.

Referring to recent operations, he said indigenously developed air defence and anti-drone systems were effectively deployed during Operation Sindoor to neutralise aerial threats. Advances in AI-driven threat prediction, early warning and response mechanisms, he added, are giving soldiers greater confidence on the battlefield.

The Minister stressed that artificial intelligence and quantum technologies are now central to modern warfare, shaping decision-making, autonomous platforms, cyber defence and precision strikes. He urged BEL and other defence public sector undertakings to remain at the forefront of emerging technologies and deepen collaboration with start-ups, industry, and academia.

During the visit, BEL showcased indigenisation initiatives undertaken by its Central Research Laboratories and various Centres of Excellence focused on electronics warfare, communications, radar and weapon systems. Products developed by start-ups and industry partners were also displayed.

Team BharatShakti