India to build HAMMER Weapon System: BEL–Safran JV ushers in new era of indigenous precision power
After proving its firepower in real ops, the air-to-ground weapon HAMMER is now set to be built on Indian soil under a brand-new BEL–Safran joint venture, a move that hits different for India’s journey toward indigenous precision warfare.
BEL has inked a 50:50 partnership with France's Safran Electronics & Defence (SED) to put the HAMMER system into full-scale Indian production. This isn't another collab; it's a strong move toward a self-driven, future-ready, globally competitive defence ecosystem.
The HAMMER- Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range- has already flexed its combat-worthiness during Operation Sindoor and is now stepping into Indian manufacturing lines. Equipped with a mix of GPS-inertial navigation and laser or IR guidance, the weapon is built for ruthless accuracy in high-stakes strikes. Its modular vibe allows it to switch between warheads and propulsion units, making it compatible with fighters such as the Rafale and potentially the Tejas LCA.
Aatmanirbhar Bharat Level-Up
The J-V will eventually progress from component assembly to deep-level localisation, achieving close to 60% indigenous build. While BEL undertakes the responsibility of production and quality control aspects, Safran provides the tech firepower and design expertise. As the MoU was formalised after Aero India 2025, it underlined mutual trust and long-term strategic congruence between the two countries.
Boost for IAF Ops
While homegrown production has ensured faster deliveries, fewer import hurdles, and higher mission readiness for the Indian Air Force, the modular system of the weapon lets it adapt instantly-from tactical missions to deep-strike penetrations-essentially giving combat platforms agility and precision as demanded by today's battlefields. Opening the Door to Exports Upgrades, support, and manufacturing based in India could eventually make the country a global supplier of advanced HAMMER variants. Think of India not just using precision weapons but exporting them, too. France–India Defence Ties Go Stronger From Rafale to propulsion tech, this new chapter adds another layer to a partnership already built on trust and high stakes. This is no more licensed production; this is real technology sharing, capability-building, and a bold step toward a defence industry standing tall on the world stage.
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