The Ministry of Defence has entered into a strategic partnership with Bharat Electronics Limited, based in Bengaluru, to bolster the capabilities of the Indian Air Force by acquiring advanced Electronic Warfare (EW) Suites, along with essential aircraft modification kits. This contract, valued at approximately Rs 2,385.36 crore, also includes the installation of the equipment on Mi-17 V5 helicopters.
The agreement was formalized in New Delhi on April 07, 2025, in the presence of Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh, highlighting the government’s commitment to enhancing indigenous defense capabilities. This contract falls under the Buy (Indian-Indigenously Designed Developed and Manufactured) category, emphasizing the importance of self-reliance in defense production.
The newly introduced EW Suite is expected to significantly enhance the operational survivability of the Mi-17 V5 helicopters, especially in hostile environments where electronic warfare capabilities are critical. A substantial portion of the components and sub-assemblies for the EW Suite will be sourced from domestic manufacturers, which is expected to stimulate the Indian electronics sector and provide opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
This initiative marks a crucial advancement in developing indigenous EW capabilities, aligning with the government’s vision of achieving Aatmanirbhar Bharat—self-reliant India. It corresponds closely with the Make-in-India initiative, aimed at fostering domestic manufacturing and reducing dependence on foreign technology in defense and other sectors. The signing of this contract is a significant step towards strengthening the country’s defense architecture while promoting local industries and enhancing technological advancements.
