By Kamal Shah
At the Farnborough International Airshow 2024, the emphasis on missile technology and its strategic implications for national and global security cannot be overstated. This year’s event promises to be particularly significant, as industry leaders gather to showcase advancements in aerospace and defence. Commodore A Madhavrao, CMD of Bharat Dynamics Ltd. (BDL), brings a wealth of expertise in missile development and anti-missile defence systems as he shared his insights with Kamal Shah, Editorial Director of Indian Aerospace & Defence, underscoring BDL’s pivotal role in the evolving landscape of missile technology.
Bharat Dynamics Ltd. has established itself as a formidable entity in the defence sector, particularly in missile technology. With a focus on developing advanced guided missiles, underwater weapons, and airborne products, BDL has become a cornerstone of India’s defence capabilities. The company’s state-of-the-art facilities enable it to manufacture and supply a diverse range of defence equipment, which has garnered global recognition. As nations increasingly prioritize missile systems to enhance their defence strategies, BDL’s innovations are likely to attract significant attention at the airshow.
The global defence environment is characterized by rapid technological advancements and shifting geopolitical dynamics. As countries seek to bolster their military capabilities, missile technology has emerged as a critical area of focus. The ability to deliver precision strikes and counter potential threats through advanced missile systems is essential for maintaining national security. BDL’s commitment to developing cutting-edge missile technology positions it as a key player in this arena, capable of meeting the demands of modern warfare.
Moreover, the increasing importance of anti-missile defence systems cannot be overlooked. As missile threats proliferate, nations are investing in technologies that can neutralize these dangers. BDL’s expertise in this domain highlights its strategic significance in safeguarding national interests. The company’s ongoing projects and innovations in anti-missile systems will undoubtedly be a focal point of discussion at the Farnborough International Airshow.
The airshow serves as a platform for BDL to showcase its capabilities and engage with international partners. The event will provide an opportunity for industry stakeholders to explore potential collaborations and partnerships that can further enhance missile technology development. As BDL continues to evolve and expand its product offerings, its participation in such high-profile events is crucial for reinforcing its position in the global defence market.
Q. Could you tell us some of the major achievements of the last financial year?
BDL has achieved significant milestones during the year
a) The company has aggressively participated in various tenders and has achieved an order book of close to Rs 20,000 Crores as of 01 Apr 20024.
b) The first Radio Frequency (RF) Seeker of Akash–Next Generation Weapon System produced at BDLs newly commissioned State-of-the-art Seeker Facility Centre was handed over to the Secretary, DD R&D and Chairman, DRDO.
c) The Akash Air Defence System which destroyed four unmanned targets simultaneously in operational field trials conducted by Indian Air Force in December 2023 was manufactured by BDL. This made India to become the first country to demonstrate the capability of engaging four (04) targets simultaneously with a command-guided Missile.
d) DRDO developed and BDL manufactured Astra Missile for supply to the Indian Air Force was flagged off by Hon’ble Raksha Rajya Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt.
e) New Generation Akash Surface-to-Air Missile (Akash NG) was successfully test-fired early this year. The missile includes the Radio Frequency Seeker designed by DRDO and manufactured by BDL.
f) Combat trial of indigenously developed and BDL-manufactured Varunastra, a ship-launched anti-submarine Heavy Weight Torpedo was successfully conducted by the Indian Navy (IN). The Torpedo has been manufactured and supplied by BDL.
Q. Atmanirbharta or Self-reliance is one of the key areas which the Government of India is focussing on. What measures is BDL taking to contribute towards this goal?
With the government’s emphasis on Atmanirbharta, BDL has made Atmanirbharta a top priority. BDL is intensifying its R&D efforts to innovate products for the Armed Forces. The company is also modernizing its facilities and training its workforce to leverage emerging technologies. Indigenization is a key focus area, enabling BDL to offer competitively priced products with up to 80 to 90% indigenization across its operations. Additionally, BDL is supporting MSMEs in its supply chain to ensure their long-term viability as partners in the journey towards self-reliance.
Q3. With over five decades of experience in missile and allied equipment manufacturing, BDL has ventured into the international market by offering its products for exports. What products is the Company offering for exports?
BDL is offering Surface to Air Missiles, Air-to-Air Missiles, Anti-Tank Guided Missiles, underwater weapons and countermeasure systems for export to Friendly Foreign Countries. These products include the Akash Weapon System, Astra Weapon System, Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon, Helina, Light Weight Torpedo & Heavy Weight Torpedo, Counter Measures Dispensing System, Anti-Submarine Warfare Suite, Anti-Tank Guided Missiles.
Q4. How is the performance of the Company in terms of exports?
BDL has placed significant emphasis on the export of its products to friendly foreign countries. The products offered are state-of-the-art, designed indigenously, competitively priced and not heavily reliant on any foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers. The endeavours being made on export promotion have resulted in several leads for products such as Akash Weapon System, ATGMs, Air to Air Missile (Astra), Smart Anti-Airfield Weapon, Helina (Air-to-Surface Weapons), Light Weight Torpedo and Counter Measures Dispensing System. These leads are actively being pursued by BDL. So far, BDL has secured export orders for Light Weight Torpedoes, Counter Measures Dispensing System, ATGM and Akash Weapon System. As of 01 Apr 2024, the total export order book of BDL stands at ₹2449 Crore, reflecting the growing success in the international market.
Q5. Could you outline the contemporary modernization efforts undertaken by BDL?
BDL has implemented various measures aimed at modernizing its facilities. Some of these are:
a) The Surface-Mount Technology & ‘High-Performance Computing facility’ at BDL, Kanchanbagh Unit have been commissioned.
b) An environmental testing facility for large systems like complete Heavy Weight Torpedoes has been established at Visakhapatnam Unit of the Company which is the first of its kind in the Country.
c) “Warhead” manufacturing facility has been set up at the Bhanur unit, with the capability and capacity to manufacture all warheads required for products being manufactured at BDL.
d) A state-of-the-art “RF Seeker facility” has been set up at Kanchanbagh Unit for the assembly and testing of RF seekers for all modern missiles.
e) The Second Phase of Ibrahimpatnam Unit work has commenced where capacity augmentation infrastructure for assembly and testing of larger missiles and a warhead testing facility is being set up.
f) A state of art propellant plant is being set up in the UP defence corridor.
g) BDL has been constantly upgrading its manufacturing technologies and processes to state-of-the-art including industry 4.0 and Robotics operated workshops.
Q6. BDL has entered into the 55th Year of its incorporation this month serving the Armed Forces. What is the future outlook of the Company?
Leveraging its existing strengths, BDL is poised to redefine its role in the defence sector both domestically and internationally. Accordingly, BDL has identified areas of its focus. These include:
a) Optimization of Production Lines. BDL recognizes the imperative to optimize its existing production lines to enhance efficiency and output. By streamlining processes and implementing cutting-edge technologies, BDL aims to elevate its manufacturing capabilities, ensuring timely delivery of products with the highest quality.
b) Maximizing Geostrategic Reach. Expanding its export footprint while fostering indigenization, BDL seeks to maximize its geostrategic reach. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations, BDL aims to strengthen defence ties with Nations across the globe, thereby bolstering India’s position as a reliable defence partner.
c) Co-development with Design Agencies. BDL is committed to fostering innovation through collaborative efforts with design agencies. By co-developing new projects, BDL endeavours to stay ahead of the curve, delivering next-generation defence solutions that meet the evolving needs of modern warfare.
d) Upgradation through Innovation. Innovation lies at the heart of BDL’s future outlook. Through continuous research and development, BDL aims to upgrade its in-house products, incorporating advanced technologies to enhance performance and functionality.
e) Offset Projects and Introducing New Technologies. BDL is actively pursuing offset projects to bring state-of-the-art technologies to India’s defence sector. By introducing new technologies not currently available in the country, BDL aims to strengthen India’s indigenous defence capabilities while fostering technological self-reliance.
f) Anticipating Future Customer Requirements. BDL remains committed to anticipating the future requirements of its customers. By staying abreast of emerging trends and leveraging market insights, BDL aims to proactively innovate and tailor its offerings to meet the evolving needs of defence forces worldwide.
g) Obsolescence Management and Life Cycle Support. Recognizing the importance of obsolescence management, BDL is dedicated to providing comprehensive life cycle support for its products. Through proactive maintenance and upgrades, BDL ensures the longevity and effectiveness of its defence systems, thereby safeguarding national security interests.
h) Expanding into Foreign Markets. BDL is poised to expand its presence in foreign markets, capitalizing on its reputation for reliability and excellence. By forging strategic alliances and penetrating new territories, BDL aims to solidify its position as a global leader in the defence industry.