New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has taken a significant step towards bolstering India’s naval capabilities with the signing of a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Hyderabad, on 13th February 2024 in New Delhi. The contract, valued at Rs. 2269.54 Crores, pertains to the procurement of 11 Shakti Electronic Warfare Systems, including associated equipment and accessories, for the Indian Navy under the Buy (Indian- IDDM) category.
The Shakti Electronic Warfare (EW) System, a testament to India’s prowess in indigenous defence technology, has been designed, developed, and manufactured domestically. This state-of-the-art EW System is equipped with the capability to accurately intercept electronic emissions and implement countermeasures in dense electromagnetic environments.
The Shakti EW System is slated to be installed on-board capital warships of the Indian Navy, enhancing their electronic warfare capabilities. The system’s capability to operate effectively in challenging electromagnetic environments underscores its strategic importance in naval operations.
Apart from its operational advantages, the project is expected to have a positive impact on the Indian economy. Over a span of four years, the Shakti EW System project is projected to generate employment of two and a half lakh man-days. The endeavor will witness the participation of over 155 industry partners, including Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). This aligns with the vision of ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India), promoting indigenous manufacturing and fostering collaboration with various segments of the industry.
The procurement of Shakti EW Systems underscores the commitment of the Ministry of Defence to enhance the technological capabilities of the Indian armed forces while simultaneously promoting self-reliance in defence production. The signing of this contract is a significant milestone towards fortifying India’s naval prowess and ensuring the security and sovereignty of the nation.