New Delhi: In a significant boost to indigenous defence manufacturing, India Optel Limited (IOL), a Mini Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, signed a collaboration agreement with Safran Electronics and Defense for the transfer of production of two high-precision, combat-proven systems to be manufactured in India.
The IOL-Safran collaboration aligns with the Make-in-India programme envisioned by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and focuses on strengthening domestic production capabilities for critical defence technologies.
Under the IOL-Safran collaboration, the two systems identified for local manufacturing include the SIGMA 30N Digital Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System and the CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight.
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The SIGMA 30N system is deployed across artillery guns, air defence platforms, missiles, and radar systems, while the CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight is designed for use in artillery guns and anti-drone systems.
IOL-Safran Collaboration Covers Advanced Navigation and Fire-Control Systems
The agreement was formally signed by Tushar Tripathi, Chairman and Managing Director of IOL, and Alexandre Ziegler, Head of the Defence Global Business Unit at Safran Electronics & Defense.
The signing took place in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar in New Delhi on December 22, 2025.
Building upon the Memorandum of Understanding signed in January 2024, the IOL-Safran collaboration reaffirms the commitment of both organisations to manufacture, support, and sustain these advanced defence systems within India.
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IOL-Safran Collaboration Builds on 2024 MoU
As part of the partnership, IOL will be responsible for manufacturing, final assembly, testing, quality control, and comprehensive life-cycle support.
This approach ensures that the systems meet the operational requirements of the Indian Army while adhering to global quality standards.
By combining IOL’s established industrial infrastructure in India with Safran Electronics & Defense’s expertise in inertial navigation and fire-control technologies, the collaboration contributes to strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem and enhancing the operational readiness of land forces.
