In a significant boost to India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India) initiatives, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Rosoboronexport have signed a tripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to commence licensed production and supply of high explosive incendiary (HEI) ammunition for the Indian Army. The MoU was formalised in New Delhi on Tuesday with BEL Director (Marketing) KV Suresh Kumar and Rosoboronexport’s Deputy Director General Viacheslav V Kozlov as signatories.

Strategic Partnership

“This agreement leverages the complementary strengths and capabilities of BEL and
Rosoboronexport, marking a crucial step in the indigenisation of ammunition required by the
Indian Army,” said BEL in an official statement. “This collaboration underscores our commitment to bolster India’s domestic defence manufacturing ecosystem and establish the nation as a global exporter of arms and advanced systems.”

Scope of Production

Under the agreement, BEL and Rosoboronexport will co-produce a variety of ammunition
including:

● 30 mm ammunition (HEI & HET)
● 40 mm ammunition (VOG-25)
● 30 mm grenade ammunition (VOG-30D)

According to Rosoboronexport, VOG-25 and VOG-30D rounds are designed for grenade launchers attached to assault rifles, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Army.

Strategic Dialogue

This development follows the discussions at the 22nd Russia-India Annual Summit, co-chaired
by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. The summit focused on co-production and co-development of arms and weapons systems, with both leadersadvocating for joint efforts in developing military spares and advanced equipment under the Make in India policy.

Defence Budget Allocation In line with the government’s initiative to boost the defence sector, the Union Budget 2024-25 unveiled on Tuesday has allocated $11 billion for the procurement of arms and systems from domestic sources, further reinforcing the commitment to self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

This joint venture marks a pivotal step towards strengthening India’s defence capabilities while promoting indigenous production, ensuring a robust and self-reliant defence sector in the country.