New Delhi: In a significant boost to India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Safran Electronics & Defence (SED), France have entered into a Joint Venture Cooperation Agreement (JVCA) for the production of the HAMMER Smart Precision Guided Weapon in India.
The collaboration supports the national vision of Aatmanirbhar Bharat and Make in India. The JVCA was formally signed on November 24, 2025, in New Delhi by BEL Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Jain and SED Executive Vice President Alexandre Ziegler.
The signing ceremony was attended by Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production), and Safran CEO Olivier Andries.
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JV Aims to Accelerate Local Production of HAMMER Smart Precision Guided Weapon
The agreement follows the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between BEL and SED during Aero India on February 11, 2025.
It confirms the commitment of both organisations to establish a Joint Venture Company (JVC) in India with equal 50:50 shareholding.
The proposed JVC will oversee the indigenous manufacturing, supply, and maintenance of the HAMMER Smart Precision Guided Weapon, ensuring timely support to the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force and Indian Navy.
Indigenisation to Reach 60% Through Phased Local Manufacturing
The joint venture targets an indigenisation level of up to 60%, with critical sub-assemblies, electronics, and mechanical components planned for local production.
The transfer of production will take place in phases, with BEL handling final assembly, quality assurance, and system testing.
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HAMMER Smart Precision Guided Weapon: Combat-Proven Technology for Multiple Fighter Platforms
The HAMMER system, a combat-proven precision-guided air-to-ground weapon, is valued for its high accuracy, modular architecture, and platform versatility. It is compatible with aircraft such as the Rafale and the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.
Strengthening India’s Defence Industrial Base
This JVCA reinforces BEL’s commitment to expanding India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and leverages Safran’s global experience in smart precision-guided weapons.
The collaboration is expected to strengthen India’s self-reliance in advanced air-to-ground weapon systems.
