In a major step toward enhancing maritime security, the Ministry of Defence has inked a contract worth Rs. 1220.12 crore with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, for the procurement of 149 state-of-the-art Software Defined Radios (SDRs) for the Indian Coast Guard. The agreement, signed on Thursday, falls under the ‘Buy (Indian-IDDM)’ category, reinforcing the government’s commitment to boosting indigenous defence manufacturing.
The advanced SDRs will enable secure and reliable communication, supporting high-speed data sharing and secure voice transmission. This cutting-edge communication technology will significantly improve the Coast Guard’s ability to execute key responsibilities such as maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, fisheries protection, and marine environmental conservation. Additionally, these radios will enhance interoperability, facilitating seamless joint operations with the Indian Navy.
This project is a strategic move to strengthen the Indian Coast Guard’s operational capabilities while supporting the government’s Blue Economy objectives by safeguarding maritime interests. As part of the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative, the contract not only aims to upgrade military-grade communication systems but will also create employment opportunities and foster expertise development in advanced technologies within India.
Earlier this month, the Ministry of Defence also signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in New Delhi for the procurement of 28 EON-51 systems, intended for 11 New Generation Offshore Patrol Vessels and three Cadet Training Ships for the Indian Navy, valued at Rs. 642.17 crore. The EON-51 system, an Electro Optical Fire Control System, enables the search, detection, and classification of targets using advanced Electro Optical and Thermal Imager devices.
