Government Signs Over Rs 1,220 Crore Deal with BEL for 149 Software-Defined Radios
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Synopsis
The Indian government has signed a significant contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd for 149 software-defined radios worth Rs 1,220.12 crore aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the Indian Coast Guard, boosting maritime security and supporting local manufacturing initiatives.
Key Takeaways
- Contract Value: Rs 1,220.12 crore
- Function: Secure communication for Indian Coast Guard
- Category: Buy (Indian-IDDM)
- Job Creation: Employment opportunities in manufacturing
- Interoperability: Enhanced joint operations with Indian Navy
New Delhi, Feb 20 (NationPress) The government announced that it has finalized a contract with Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) for the acquisition of 149 software-defined radios intended for the Indian Coast Guard, with a total expenditure of Rs 1,220.12 crore.
This agreement falls under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category and was formalized between the Ministry of Defence and BEL, based in Bengaluru.
The ministry highlighted that these cutting-edge radios will facilitate secure and efficient information exchange, teamwork, and situational awareness through high-speed data and secure voice communication.
This enhancement will bolster the Indian Coast Guard's ability to execute its fundamental duties, which encompass maritime law enforcement, search and rescue missions, fisheries protection, and marine environmental preservation. Furthermore, the new radios will improve interoperability for joint maneuvers with the Indian Navy.
The government views this initiative as a pivotal measure in enhancing the Coast Guard's operational proficiencies and aligning with its 'Blue Economy' goals by fortifying maritime security.
In line with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ campaign, the contract aims to boost the nation’s manufacturing prowess for sophisticated military-grade communication systems, creating job opportunities and promoting skill development, as stated by the Ministry of Defence.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Defence also signed a Rs 642 crore deal with BEL, Delhi, for the acquisition of 28 EON-51 systems for the Indian Navy.
The EON-51 is an Electro-Optical Fire Control System that enables search, detection, and categorization of targets utilizing electro-optical and thermal imaging technologies.
This initiative is expected to create jobs over a three-year period and promote active engagement of various Indian industries, including MSMEs.
The acquisition of 28 EON-51 systems is intended for 11 New Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels and three Cadet Training Ships for the Indian Navy, totaling Rs 642.17 crore, inclusive of taxes, under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.
The Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking BEL recently secured additional contracts worth Rs 531 crore within the past fortnight.
Key orders include advanced composite communication systems for vessels, communication devices, medical electronics, electro-optics, active radar homing heads for missiles, classroom jammers, spare parts, services, among others.
