New Delhi: In a significant boost to its defense indigenization efforts, India has entered into a joint venture with France to manufacture the Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range (HAMMER) smart precision-guided air-to-ground weapon system within the country. This move is set to bolster self-reliance, reduce import dependence, and foster advanced defense technology collaboration between the two nations.

The agreement formalizes the intent expressed in the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between India's Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France's Safran Electronics and Defence (SED) on February 11, 2025, during Aero India. The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced the establishment of a Joint Venture Company (JVC) with equal 50:50 shareholding. The JVC will operate as a private limited company.

The primary focus of this JVC will be to localize the manufacturing, supply, and maintenance of the HAMMER weapon system. These weapons will be integrated into the Indian Air Force's Rafale fighters and the Indian Navy's Rafale Marine aircraft to meet the operational needs of both services.

The indigenization level is projected to progressively increase up to 60 percent, with key sub-assemblies, electronics, and mechanical parts being manufactured locally. The transfer of production will be executed in a phased manner, with BEL taking the lead in final assembly, testing, and quality assurance.

The HAMMER, known for its precision, modular design, and high accuracy, has proven its combat effectiveness. Its modular design allows for adaptability across multiple platforms. It consists of a guidance kit and a range extension kit fitted on standard bombs of different makes. This air-to-surface weapon is designed to destroy bunkers and hardened shelters at ranges of around 70 km. It can be integrated with bombs of varying sizes, including 125kg, 250kg, 500kg, and 1000kg.

The HAMMER's procurement history is noteworthy. Initially, it was kept out of the 2016 contract for 36 Rafale fighter jets and the associated weapons package due to cost considerations. However, it was later acquired under emergency procurement powers granted to the IAF for urgent operational needs. The IAF chose the HAMMER because the Rafale lacked a suitable air-to-surface precision missile for shorter ranges to eliminate hardened surfaces and bunkers. The HAMMER is also suitable for operations in mountainous terrains.

The JVCA was formally signed by CMD of BEL, Manoj Jain, and Executive Vice President of SED, Alexandre Ziegler, in the presence of Secretary (Defence Production) Sanjeev Kumar and CEO of Safran, Olivier Andries.

This partnership aligns with BEL's strategic focus on developing India's defense industrial ecosystem, leveraging Safran's extensive experience in smart air-to-ground weapon systems. It also furthers the Indian government's objective of self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

The agreement between BEL and Safran also indicates advanced defense technology collaboration between India and France.