In a significant advancement for India’s defense self-reliance, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has joined forces with France’s Safran Electronics & Defence (SED) to establish a joint venture aimed at producing the HAMMER precision-guided air-to-ground weapon system in India. This collaboration not only underscores India’s commitment to enhancing its indigenous defense capabilities, but it also marks a pivotal moment in the country’s journey toward greater self-sufficiency in military technology.
The Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range, known as HAMMER, is a combat-proven system that has been successfully utilized by the Indian Air Force during Operation Sindoor. The move to initiate local production signifies a crucial leap in India’s precision-strike capabilities, aligning with the nation’s defense modernization efforts.
HAMMER integrates a combination of GPS-inertial navigation systems along with laser or infrared guidance, ensuring high-accuracy engagements with fortified targets. Its modular design offers the flexibility of multiple warhead options and various propulsion systems, making it compatible with platforms like the Rafale and the indigenous Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
The joint venture between BEL and Safran will operate with a 50:50 shareholding structure, and the manufacturing process will transition from subcomponent production to final assembly, aiming for nearly 60% indigenization. BEL will manage production and quality assurance, while Safran will contribute critical technology and design support, fostering the development of local expertise.
This partnership was formalized during a signing ceremony attended by senior defense officials and Safran leadership, following an earlier memorandum of understanding that was established at Aero India 2025. The initiative is anticipated to enhance the operational readiness of the Indian Air Force, as domestic production is expected to facilitate quicker supply chains, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure sustained mission effectiveness.
The HAMMER’s adaptable nature means it can rapidly shift configurations for various operational roles, ranging from tactical strikes to deep penetration missions, thereby increasing flexibility across diverse combat environments.
Furthermore, this joint venture opens avenues for India’s potential as an exporter of guided munitions. With plans for complete lifecycle support and domestic upgrades, the partnership sets the stage for India to emerge as a manufacturing hub for advanced HAMMER variants.
This development not only strengthens the bilateral defense collaboration between India and France, which has a rich history that includes the Rafale program and joint ventures in aerospace technology but also illustrates a progressive shift from mere licensed manufacturing to a genuine partnership in technology. Such collaborations are crucial as India aspires to build a robust and globally competitive defense industrial base, marking a new era in its quest for self-reliance in defense capabilities.
