SOURCE: RAUNAK KUNDE / NEWS BEAT / IDRW.ORG

Manoj Jain, the Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, has expressed optimism regarding the finalization of a significant Rs 25,000 crore deal for the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system. The deal is expected to be concluded within the next 8 months to one year, aiming for an end date before March 26, 2026.
This announcement comes at a pivotal time for the QRSAM program, which has been under scrutiny for its performance and reliability. Back in 2023, it was reported that the system needed further testing in 2024 to enhance mission reliability and address some technical glitches. The Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), responsible for the missile’s development, had conducted tests in what was described as the final deployment configuration. This configuration included all indigenously-developed sub-systems like the missile with an indigenous Radio Frequency (RF) seeker, mobile launcher, a fully automated command and control system, as well as surveillance and multi-function radars.
The QRSAM is engineered to be highly mobile, capable of operating on the move with the ability to search, track, and engage targets even on short halts. This feature is crucial for the Indian Army’s Air Defence units to keep pace with offensive formations, providing a rapid response against aerial threats.
The missile system’s reliance on locally developed components underscores India’s push towards self-reliance in defence technology, reducing dependence on foreign imports for critical military hardware. The system’s design allows for quick deployment and engagement, making it an asset in dynamic battlefield scenarios where threats can emerge at short notice.
Jain’s confidence in the deal’s timeline suggests that the issues previously identified have either been resolved or are on the path to being fixed satisfactorily. This would not only mean a significant financial boost for BEL but also a testament to the successful indigenous development of defence technologies in India. The QRSAM, once fully operational, is expected to significantly enhance the Indian Army’s air defence capabilities, particularly in countering low-level aerial threats at short ranges.
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