SOURCE: AFI

Sunita Tools, a leading Indian manufacturer known for its precision engineering and mould base products, has secured a significant contract to supply 100,000 cases for 155-mm artillery shells. The deal was first reported by Business Standard, highlighting a pivotal moment for the company’s expansion into the defense sector.
The order comes from an unidentified defense company, which has issued a letter of intent for the purchase of 100,000 M107 shell casings. This contract stipulates that the full supply must be completed within one year of the prototype approval phase. Initial steps have already been taken, with Sunita Tools receiving government approval to kickstart prototype production, signaling a green light for this venture.
Sanjay Pandey, Sunita Tools’ Chairman and Permanent Technical Director, confirmed the ambitious timeline set by the anonymous buyer. “The customer has granted us an eight-month window to scale up our production capacity to meet the mass production demands,” Pandey stated. During this period, the company is expected to deliver prototypes and small batches from its current facilities, ensuring a smooth transition to full-scale production.
The financial implications of this contract are substantial, with estimates suggesting that the deal could be worth between $23 million and $35 million. This not only represents a significant revenue stream for Sunita Tools but also marks the company’s entry into a high-stakes market, driven by global military exigencies.
Pandey hinted at the broader context fueling this demand, noting, “The increase in orders reflects the escalating dynamics of military operations worldwide.” Although the identity of the customer remains confidential, the surge in demand for artillery shell casings can be linked to various global conflicts and the need to replenish stockpiles or prepare for potential engagements.