New Delhi: India has signed a Rs. 1,950 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to procure low-level transportable radars designed for mountainous terrain in a move aimed at strengthening air defence along sensitive border areas.
The radars are expected to enhance the military’s ability to detect and track low-flying aerial threats, such as aircraft, helicopters, and drones, in high-altitude regions where traditional radar systems face limitations.
Focus on mobility and rapid deployment
The systems are designed to be mobile and can be deployed quickly across different operational sectors based on evolving threats.
Their transportable nature is expected to provide flexibility to the armed forces, particularly in frontier areas where terrain and infrastructure constraints often slow down response times.
The armed forces view such capabilities as crucial for maintaining surveillance in sectors along the borders with China and Pakistan, where mountainous terrain presents operational challenges.
Filling gaps in modern air defence
The acquisition comes as India continues to upgrade its multi-layered air defence network in response to changing warfare patterns. The increasing use of drones, precision-guided weapons, and standoff attacks underscores the need for improved low-altitude detection systems. Officials anticipate that the new radars will fill critical surveillance gaps and enhance early warning capabilities in strategically significant areas.
Boost to domestic defence manufacturing
The deal is also expected to support India’s push for indigenous defence production. BEL, a state-run defence electronics company, has been a key player in developing surveillance and air defence systems within the country. The contract reinforces its role in supplying critical technologies while reducing dependence on imports in the defence sector.