By Kamal Shah
In the aftermath of Operation Sindoor and the testing of 21st-century, sophisticated weaponry in live scenarios, the focus has shifted to indigenous manufacture and the success of these systems. Commodore A. Madhavarao, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Dynamics Limited, talks to us about the Akash weapon system, its enormous validity and awesome capabilities in ensuring a robust defence canopy, truly the best in its class. Some achievement indeed.
Q. How does it feel to be a crucial pillar in securing India’s sovereignty, especially knowing that Bharat Dynamics Limited’s iconic Aakash missile has grown into a global symbol of strength and innovation, envied by neighbours and cherished with immense national pride?
A. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), since its establishment 54 years ago, has consistently played a pivotal role in enhancing the preparedness and operational capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. As a premier Defence Public Sector Undertaking, BDL has steadily evolved to become a critical pillar in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, contributing significantly to the nation’s security infrastructure.
Over the decades, BDL’s portfolio of manufactured products—encompassing both those developed through foreign collaborations and those indigenously designed in association with DRDO—has become a cornerstone of our Armed Forces’ strength. By incorporating advanced technologies and meeting stringent quality standards, these systems have not only met but often surpassed the operational requirements of our defence services. The Missile Systems, Torpedoes, Countermeasure Devices, and other strategic armament supplied by BDL have empowered the Army, Navy, and Air Force to defend the Nation’s sovereignty with vigor and efficiency.
A strategic thrust towards increasing indigenous content in weapon systems has always been at the core of BDL’s manufacturing philosophy. This commitment directly aligns with the vision of Atma Nirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India), ensuring that the country reduces its dependence on foreign suppliers and fosters the growth of the domestic defence industrial base. Our indigenous initiatives, in synergy with DRDO and other national research organizations, have led to the development of state-of-the-art weaponry that is designed, engineered, and manufactured within the country, resulting in technology retention, cost efficiency, and enhanced strategic autonomy. The Akash Weapon System (AWS) with the Akash missiles as its core is one such completely indigenous system, best in its class globally.
Beyond manufacture and supply, BDL remains dedicated to providing comprehensive lifecycle support for all its products. The company’s customer-centric approach manifests through robust after-sales services, maintenance solutions, and technical assistance, ensuring that the Armed Forces can fully exploit the operational potential of BDL’s products throughout their service life. We recognize the critical nature of our products in national security, and thus, our teams are always prepared to offer prompt and effective support, regardless of geographic or logistical challenges.
It has been, and will continue to be, our constant endeavor to provide the Indian Armed Forces with not only superior technology and reliability in the products we deliver but also unwavering technical support whenever required. Ensuring the readiness and effectiveness of our defence services remains our utmost priority, and we are committed to contributing towards the vision of a self-reliant, secure, and robust India.
Q. In light of India’s strengthened global standing through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, particularly in defence production, how does Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) intend to further enhance India’s competitiveness and export capabilities in the international defence market?
A. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), by adhering to global standards in the manufacturing of indigenous products developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), has positioned itself as a leader capable of delivering advanced defence systems at highly competitive prices. This unique combination of state-of-the-art technology, reliability, and affordability has significantly strengthened BDL’s appeal in the international market. As a result, BDL’s best-in-class systems, coupled with their cost-effectiveness, have attracted considerable interest from prospective foreign customers. Added to this, the effective use of many of these in the recent operations has prompted the acceleration of several proposal cases, with many progressing at an unprecedented pace.
Furthermore, BDL is proactively increasing its international footprint through strategic marketing initiatives. The company is leveraging the valuable support provided by Indian Embassies in various potential markets, collaborating with established channel partners, and ensuring prominent participation in international defence exhibitions. These efforts collectively enhance BDL’s visibility and reputation on the global stage, effectively showcasing its capabilities and product portfolio to key stakeholders and potential clients worldwide.
In anticipation of increased global demand, BDL has already augmented its production capacity, ensuring the company’s readiness to fulfill urgent export orders. This proactive scaling of manufacturing infrastructure equips BDL to address immediate delivery requirements, thereby enhancing customer satisfaction and reinforcing India’s commitment to being a reliable partner in defence exports. Further, the unique feature of BDL’s exports is in enabling the local industry of the friendly country to take on the life cycle support through focused training and ToT, depending on the capability of the local industry. Consequently, BDL’s integrated approach—encompassing best-in-class technology, competitive pricing, robust marketing strategies, scalable production capabilities and enabling local industry for life cycle support—solidifies its position within the global defence industry and contributes to achieving India’s broader vision of self-reliance and leadership in the defence sector.
Q. Given the longstanding and increasingly robust partnership between Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), could you please elaborate on the prospective areas of collaboration or upcoming projects that both organizations are planning to undertake together in the foreseeable future?
A. The partnership between Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has been a stellar example of international cooperation in the field of defense technologies. Over the past several years, Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and IAI have played a pivotal role in the highly successful Medium Range Surface to Air Missile (MRSAM) program, where BDL is the Production Agency. This program has not only strengthened India’s air defense capabilities for the Army, Navy, and Air Force, but has also demonstrated the immense potential that can be harnessed when Indian and Israeli expertise are combined.
The ongoing production of MRSAM systems by BDL is a testament to this collaboration’s strength and reliability. BDL’s prowess in technology absorption and advanced manufacturing ensures that these state-of-the-art missile systems are consistently delivered to customers, meeting the stringent standards and operational requirements of all three Indian armed services. The seamless delivery and integration of these systems into the defense architecture underscore BDL’s commitment to quality and DRDO & IAI’s excellence in technological innovation.
What’s even more exciting is the clear forward-thinking vision shared by both BDL and IAI. Recognizing the evolving needs of national security and technological advancements, both organizations are continually engaged in discussions to plan and fulfill the future requirements of the MRSAM systems. One significant area of focus is the drive to increase the indigenous content in each successive order. This dedication not only aligns perfectly with the Government of India’s “Make in India” initiative and the ethos of Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India), but it also boosts the domestic defense industry, nurtures local talent, and stimulates ancillary industries across the nation.
With the remarkable success of their collaboration in the MRSAM project, DRDO, IAI and BDL are now looking to broaden their horizons by venturing into co-development and collaboration in other missile areas, beyond the existing MRSAM program. Though these endeavors are currently in the early stages, the prospects are extremely promising. Both companies harbor a spirit of innovation and partnership, and by leveraging their combined experience, technological know-how, and deep understanding of strategic requirements, they can set new benchmarks in missile technology.
The DRDO-IAI-BDL partnership is an inspiring model of how international collaborations can lead to the development and sustained supply of world-class defense solutions. Their dedication to continuous improvement, increased indigenization, and future collaboration bodes extraordinarily well for India’s defense sector. We can look forward to even more groundbreaking advancements as they expand their partnership and work towards developing the next generation of missile systems!
Q. BDL has established a robust export portfolio; could you elaborate on the company’s strategy to enhance its presence in international markets shortly? Additionally, what specific measures does BDL implement to balance its domestic commitments while expanding its global operations effectively?
A. Over the past seven to eight years, Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) backed with the Government of India (GoI)/Ministry of Defence (MoD) unflinching support has significantly enhanced its presence in the international market, marking a transformative phase in its journey as one of India’s premier defense public sector undertakings (PSUs). This expansion into the global arena is the result of a carefully crafted strategy that aligns with both national objectives and market-driven imperatives.
Strategic Initiatives for International Expansion
BDL’s approach to international market penetration has been multifaceted, involving a blend of proactive outreach, government collaboration, and customer-centric engagement.
1. Representation in International Exhibitions:
BDL has prioritized its presence at major international defense exhibitions and trade shows. By showcasing its cutting-edge products, such as missiles, underwater weapons, and defense equipment, the company has created visibility among potential global clients and partners. These exhibitions serve as vital platforms to not only demonstrate technological prowess but also to understand emerging trends and customer requirements worldwide.
2. Collaborating with Indian Embassies Abroad:
The company has worked closely with Indian embassies in various countries to leverage diplomatic channels for business development. Embassies facilitate connections with foreign defense procurement authorities and local industry players. This collaboration ensures BDL stays attuned to the defense needs of different nations while also reinforcing India’s strategic defense relationships overseas. GoI/ MoD & MEA have put in place a forum for regular interaction of all Defence Attache’s (DAs) with Indian Industry Reps to enhance the cooperation.
3. Participation in Government-Led Delegations:
BDL has also been a regular member in delegations led by the Government of India to foreign countries. These delegations provide an official platform to engage with foreign governments and defense establishments, present BDL’s capabilities, and foster government-to-government (G2G) defense agreements. These delegations are led by senior representatives of the GoI, including the Indian Defence Minister himself.
4. Continuous Engagement and Customized Solutions:
Understanding that every foreign customer has unique requirements, BDL emphasizes sustained engagement and dialogue. The company invests time in comprehending the operational needs, standards, and procurement policies of its customers. BDL has organized dedicated seminars and presentations to the Users and the Decision makers in various friendly countries separately. This enables BDL to offer comprehensive solutions tailored to the specific demands of international buyers, going beyond product sales to encompass training, support, and lifecycle management.
Strengthening Infrastructure for Concurrent Domestic and Export Fulfillment
Recognizing that growth in export markets must not come at the expense of domestic defense commitments, BDL has made substantial investments in its infrastructure and manufacturing capabilities. The company has upgraded facilities, embraced automation where applicable, and optimized supply chains to enhance both production quality and speed.
Capacity Augmentation
BDL has scaled up its manufacturing capacities, ensuring it can manage larger order volumes from both domestic and international customers without compromising on timelines or quality. A new plant at Jhansi as part of the UP defence Corridor and additional facilities at its Ibrahimpatnam Unit in Hyderabad are getting ready and shall become operational by the end of this Financial year.
Technological Upgradation
In tandem with increasing capacity, the company has incorporated advanced manufacturing and quality assurance technologies. This not only supports efficient production but also improves product reliability, a key consideration for export markets.
Expedited Production and Delivery
Considering the various supply chain issues and their impact on deliveries, need for setting up addition facilities for backward integration, especially critical technologies was felt and BDL has established additional facilities like Surface Mounted Facilities, Seeker Manufacture and Test Facilities both RF and IIR, warhead manufacturing facility, High Temperature Carbon Composite manufacturing facility etc. Further, by refining its production processes, BDL ensures faster turnaround times. The company is thus able to honor contract schedules and delivery commitments, a critical factor in securing repeat export orders and maintaining credibility in the global marketplace.
Outcome and Continuing Progress
As a result of these concerted efforts, BDL has seen a measurable rise in international customer engagements and export orders. The company’s expanding footprint is reflective of India’s broader aspirations to emerge as a major player in the global defense industry. BDL’s strategic initiatives—ranging from global representation and diplomatic partnerships to infrastructure modernization—have positioned it as a reliable, agile, and customer-oriented defense supplier.
Q. Could you please share your perspective on the long-term vision that Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) holds in supporting India’s efforts to establish a robust indigenous defence industry? Additionally, to what extent does BDL aim to contribute to strengthening the country’s defence ecosystem over the next decade, particularly through investments in research, development, and the introduction of new technologies or products?
A. Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), under its ambitious Vision-2047, has charted a comprehensive long-term plan that is pivotal for the advancement of India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, particularly in the domains of Missiles and Underwater Weapons. This forward-looking strategy not only aims to meet the evolving requirements of the Indian Armed Forces but also positions India as a competitive player in the global export market for advanced weapon systems.
A key aspect of this vision is BDL’s sustained focus on strengthening and expanding its vendor base. Recognizing the critical role of a resilient supply chain, BDL is consistently onboarding new partners, with a special emphasis on Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), startups, and other enterprises capable of contributing to the defence ecosystem. Currently, there are more than 3500 MSMEs registered with BDL, forming an incredible Defence Echo system. By actively engaging with a diverse range of defence manufacturers, BDL ensures that each component integrated into its weapon systems can be sourced from multiple suppliers. This strategic approach not only mitigates risks associated with supply chain disruptions but also injects flexibility into the production process, guaranteeing the uninterrupted assembly and delivery of high-quality defence equipment.
Moreover, BDL’s philosophy underscores the necessity of nurturing a robust and competitive defence ecosystem through synergy. The company is committed to developing multiple vendors for every critical item required in weapon systems. This not only enhances operational flexibility but also promotes healthy competition, fostering innovation, cost-effectiveness, and continual quality improvement among suppliers.
Aligning its efforts with the national vision of ‘Atma Nirbhar Bharat’ (self-reliant India), BDL has also been investing in partnerships with startups and leading academic institutions too. By fostering research and development collaborations, the company addresses contemporary challenges in defence technology and facilitates the creation of groundbreaking solutions. These initiatives are designed to leverage the fresh perspectives and cutting-edge ideas that startups and academia bring, thereby reinforcing India’s indigenous capabilities in high-end defence technology.
Looking ahead, BDL remains steadfast in its commitment to support and catalyze the growth of the Indian Defence Industry. Through sustained collaborations, capacity-building measures, and the deliberate cultivation of a vibrant defence ecosystem, BDL is ensuring that India’s defence manufacturing sector is robust, resilient, and globally competitive. The realization of Vision-2047 will not only fortify national security but also significantly contribute to the nation’s economic growth and technological prowess, propelling India toward the goal of true self-reliance in defence production.
