India is embarking on a significant initiative to enhance its defense capabilities through the localization of advanced weapon systems. A joint venture has been established between Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France’s Safran Electronics & Defense (SED) to domestically produce the Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (HAMMER), which is a precision-guided air-to-ground munition.
The agreement, reported by KNN India, highlights the commitment of both parties to manufacture the HAMMER locally. This munitions system, known for its combat-proven reliability, is compatible with various military platforms, making it a versatile asset for missions. Its modular design allows for flexible deployment, which has garnered interest from military operators.
As part of the partnership, the joint venture will manage the entire lifecycle of the HAMMER system for both the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy. This includes localization efforts for sub-assemblies, electronics, and mechanical components, which aims to increase India’s self-sufficiency in defense production. BEL will be responsible for the final assembly, testing, and quality assurance of the munitions, and it is anticipated that indigenization will reach approximately 60 percent. This move will significantly reduce India’s dependence on foreign supply chains and bolster domestic manufacturing capabilities.
The recent agreement is a continuation of a memorandum of understanding signed earlier this year at Aero India 2025, reflecting the commitment of both India and France to strengthen their defense industrial collaboration.
This Indo-French deal aligns with a broader trend in Indian defense manufacturing, which has seen increasing participation from both public and private sectors. For instance, VEM Technologies recently produced the first center-fuselage assembly for the Tejas MK-1A, marking a milestone in the private sector’s contribution to major aircraft sub-assemblies.
In addition, prominent defense conglomerates are forging their own partnerships to enhance local manufacturing. Reliance Defence has entered into an agreement with Germany’s Diehl Defence to produce the Vulcano 155 mm precision-guided artillery ammunition system in India.
The drive for expansion is not limited to weapon manufacturing; it also encompasses testing and integration capabilities. For example, Axiscades Aerospace & Technologies has launched a missile-test bench facility at its Aeroland campus in Devanahalli. This facility is aimed at facilitating mass production, integration, and quality assurance of missile and launcher platforms in line with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) initiative.
Overall, India’s steps toward localizing advanced weapon systems are poised to create a more robust defense sector, enhance self-sufficiency, and forge deeper international collaborations in military technology and manufacturing.
