Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has entered into a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) worth INR 2,400 crore to develop and supply airborne electronic systems for the Tejas Mk1A fighter programme.
The order is the largest placed by HAL with any Indian firm to date.
The five-year contract, which will run from 2023 to 2028, involves supplying 20 types of systems such as critical avionic Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) related to Digital Flight Control Computers, Air Data Computers, Weapon Computers and LRUs related to Radar Warning Receiver and Head-Up Display LRUs.
BEL will deliver all the contracted items to HAL in a ready-to-board condition.
R Madhavan, CMD, HAL, said, “LCA Tejas programme is an excellent example of synergies between Indian Defence establishments such as HAL, DRDO & BEL. The current order for development and supply of 20 types of critical avionics LRUs for Tejas Mk1A is a shot-in-the-arm for Make in India activity. HAL stands committed to indigenous products.”
BEL’s Strategic Business Units - Electronic Warfare & Avionics, Bengaluru, and BEL-Panchkula, Haryana will execute the orders, which will be supplied to HAL for fitment on 83 Tejas Mk1A fighter ordered by the Ministry of Defence for the Indian Air Force (IAF). HAL will start deliveries of Tejas Mk1A fighters to the IAF from FY 2023-24.
The systems contracted for to BEL have been designed and developed by Aeronautical Development Agency, DRDO Labs, Aeronautical Development Establishment, Combat Aircraft Systems Development and Integration Centre (CASDIC) and Central Scientific Instruments Organisation (CSIO).