India Defence News, New Delhi, April 7, 2025 – The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has finalized a Rs 2,385.36 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, to enhance the Indian Air Force’s Mi-17 V5 helicopters with advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) Suites and aircraft modification kits, marking a significant step toward self-reliance in defence manufacturing.
Boosting Helicopter Survivability
The contract, signed under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category, includes the supply and installation of state-of-the-art EW Suites, comprising
- Radar Warning Receivers (RWR),
- Missile Approach Warning Systems (MAWS), and
- Counter Measure Dispensing Systems (CMDS).
These systems, developed by DRDO’s Centre for Airborne Systems Design and Integration Centre (CASDIC), will significantly improve the helicopters’ combat survivability in hostile environments by detecting and countering radar and missile threats.
Advancing Aatmanirbhar Bharat
The project aligns with India’s Make in India initiative, with the majority of sub-assemblies and parts sourced from indigenous manufacturers, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).
“This contract is a leap forward in developing homegrown EW capabilities, reinforcing our commitment to Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” said a MoD spokesperson.
The deal is expected to foster active participation from Indian electronics industries.
Strategic Partnership with BEL
Inked in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, the agreement underscores BEL’s growing role as a key defence PSU.
The contract adds to BEL’s robust FY25 order book, now totaling Rs 2,803 crore, following a provisional turnover of Rs 23,000 crore in FY24-25, a 16% growth from the previous year.
BEL’s shares surged up to 6% on April 8, reflecting strong investor confidence.
Enhancing IAF Capabilities
The Mi-17 V5 helicopters, critical for troop transport, logistics, and disaster relief, will gain enhanced operational effectiveness with these upgrades.
- The EW Suites will provide effective countermeasures, ensuring mission success in contested airspace.
- The installation process will also involve aircraft modification kits tailored for seamless integration.
Economic and Strategic Impact
Beyond bolstering IAF capabilities, the contract is poised to stimulate the domestic defence ecosystem. By prioritizing indigenous sourcing, it supports local industries and reduces reliance on foreign suppliers.
The project reinforces India’s strategic goal of building a self-sufficient defence manufacturing sector, capable of meeting modern warfare demands.
This landmark deal not only strengthens the Indian Air Force’s operational readiness but also cements BEL’s position as a cornerstone of India’s defence innovation, paving the way for future advancements in electronic warfare technology.