Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a public sector unit under the Navratna Defence category, has successfully delivered the 49th Weapon Locating Radar (WLR) – SWATHI to the Indian Army ahead of schedule. This radar, developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its lab, LRDE, marks a significant milestone in India’s drive for defense self-sufficiency.
The final radar from the latest batch of 12 ordered by the Indian Army in March 2023 was handed over to Brigadier RR Yadav, Commandant of the Central Ordnance Depot (COD) in Agra. The symbolic key was presented during a ceremony attended by senior officials, including BEL’s General Manager of Military Radar Hemalatha BJ, Major General Vikram Taneja, and other key representatives from the Army, DRDO, and BEL.
BEL has received multiple orders for WLRs since 2015, including variants designed for both plain and mountainous terrains. These radars are essential for enhancing the Indian Army’s combat readiness, providing real-time detection of enemy artillery and enabling precise counterattacks.
The SWATHI radar, developed jointly by BEL and DRDO’s LRDE, is a vital asset for the Army. With over 85% of its components being domestically sourced, it aligns with India’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative, which aims to strengthen self-reliance in defense technology. The radar has also passed rigorous acceptance tests, ensuring its reliability and performance.
In addition to its service in India, the WLR has gained international recognition and has been exported to allied countries, showcasing India’s growing expertise in advanced defense technologies. BEL continues to play a critical role in India’s defense manufacturing sector, advancing indigenous innovation and strengthening the country’s defense capabilities.
Founded in 1954, BEL is a key player in developing cutting-edge electronic systems for the Indian Armed Forces, including radars, communication equipment, electronic warfare systems, and missile technologies. The company has also expanded into fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and space electronics. With multiple manufacturing units across India, BEL is committed to advancing indigenous defense production, in line with the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
Besides its defense projects, BEL is also active in civil sectors, including healthcare, e-governance, and smart cities. The company is involved in railway signaling, homeland security, and medical electronics, demonstrating its diverse product range. BEL is also focused on sustainable development, investing in green energy and eco-friendly manufacturing processes. With strong research and development capabilities and strategic partnerships, BEL continues to contribute to India’s technological advancement and self-reliance in critical electronic systems.
