BEL Signs ₹2,906 Crore Deal with MoD for Indigenous LLTR (Ashwini) Radar

In a significant step toward strengthening India’s air defence capabilities, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has signed a ₹2,906 crore contract with the Ministry of Defence (MoD) for the procurement of the Low-Level Transportable Radar (LLTR) Ashwini. The radar, developed indigenously by DRDO’s Electronics & Radar Development Establishment (LRDE), is based on solid-state technology and is capable of tracking aerial targets, including drones, helicopters, and fighter jets. This deal aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative, boosting indigenous defence production.

Key Highlights of the Deal

About the Ashwini LLTR Radar

• Active electronically scanned phased array radar, developed by DRDO and BEL.
• Based on solid-state technology for advanced tracking.
• Tracks high-speed fighter jets as well as slow-moving drones and helicopters.
• Equipped with Integrated Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) system for 4D surveillance (range, azimuth, elevation, and velocity).
• Comes with Electronic Counter-Countermeasures (ECCM) capabilities to resist enemy jamming.
• Designed for mobility and can operate in diverse terrains.
• Fully indigenous radar, supporting India’s self-reliance in defence manufacturing.

Details of the BEL-MoD Deal

• ₹2,906 crore contract signed on March 14, 2025.
• The deal was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.

This is BEL’s second major defence order in a week, following a ₹577 crore deal for,

• Airborne electronic warfare systems
• Underwater communication systems
• Doppler weather radars
• Train communication systems
• Radar upgrades and related services

Strategic Importance

• Enhances India’s air surveillance and defence capabilities.
• Strengthens the Indian Air Force’s ability to detect and track aerial threats.
• Reduces dependence on imported radar systems.
• Aligns with the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative to promote indigenous defence manufacturing.