Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) and France’s Safran Electronics and Defence (SED) have teamed up to produce an advanced weapon called the Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (HAMMER) in India. This joint venture agreement was signed on November 24 in New Delhi and aims to enhance India’s defense capabilities.
This partnership builds upon an earlier memorandum of understanding made in February 2025 during Aero India, setting the stage for a shared investment in a new company. Both BEL and SED will contribute equally, with a 50:50 ownership stake.
The JV will focus on localizing the manufacture, supply, and maintenance of the HAMMER system. They plan to achieve a 60% indigenization level, meaning that a significant portion of the parts, including key electronics and mechanical components, will be made in India. Production will happen in phases, with BEL in charge of final assembly and quality checks.
HAMMER is known for its precision and versatility, compatible with various aircraft like Rafale and Tejas. This collaboration aims to bolster India’s defense production while harnessing SED’s expertise in smart weapon systems.
This news aligns with a wider drive towards indigenization in defense manufacturing that has gained momentum in recent years. According to a recent report, the Indian defense manufacturing market is expected to grow significantly, driven by policies promoting local production. The focus is on reducing reliance on imports, especially in light of geopolitical tensions.
In a related development, BEL recently secured new orders worth ₹644 crore, demonstrating its growing role in the defense sector. As of now, BEL shares closed at ₹403.80, reflecting a minor drop of 2.98% on the Bombay Stock Exchange.
For more on defense production in India, read the government report on indigenization initiatives.
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