Navrtana PSU Bharat Electronics Secures Rs 1,640 Crore Defence Order for 'Atulya' Radar; BEL Shares End Lower

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Public Sector Undertaking, has secured an order worth Rs 1,640 crore for Air Defence Fire Control Radar (Atulya) from the Indian Army. This contract, announced on July 25, highlights BEL's collaboration with the Ministry of Defence to supply these advanced radars. Designed by DRDO and manufactured by BEL, these radars are effective against air threats in all weather conditions.

The radars come equipped with Electronic Counter Measure (ECM) capabilities. They are used for surveillance, target acquisition, and tracking, as well as controlling air defence guns. Their modular design ensures ease of deployment, operation, and maintenance. The contract was formalised in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

This procurement is a significant step towards bolstering indigenous defence industries. It encourages Indian MSMEs to participate in components manufacturing and raw material supply. The government's focus on promoting domestic defence production aligns with this initiative.

Earlier this month, the Defence Acquisition Council approved ten proposals to purchase military hardware worth approximately Rs 1.05 lakh crore through indigenous sources. This decision underscores the government's commitment to enhancing India's self-reliance in defence.

Record Growth in Defence Production

India's indigenous defence production has reached a new peak of Rs 1.46 lakh crore. Exports have also surged to a record Rs 24,000 crore in 2024-25. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted this growth during his address at the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) annual summit.

"Our defence production has crossed a record figure of Rs 1,46,000 crore," stated Singh. He noted that private sector contributions exceed Rs 32,000 crore. Additionally, defence exports have risen from Rs 600-700 crore a decade ago to over Rs 24,000 crore today.

Make-in-India Initiative

The Make-in-India initiative is pivotal for national security and prosperity. During Operation Sindoor, indigenous systems demonstrated their capability to penetrate enemy armour effectively. "Our weapons and systems are reaching around 100 countries," Singh remarked.

Over 16,000 MSMEs in the defence sector form the backbone of the supply chain. These companies not only strengthen self-reliance but also provide employment opportunities to many people across India.

BEL Share Price Today

Bharat Electronics Ltd closed today at Rs 395.60, down by Rs 2.65 or 0.67% as of 3:30 pm on 25th July. The stock opened at Rs 399.00, reached a high of Rs 400.70, and touched a low of Rs 393.50 during the trading session.