India-France to manufacture HAMMER Weapon System in India

India-France Defence Deal: HAMMER Weapon Made in India

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Safran Electronics & Defence (SED) have launched a 50:50 joint venture to produce, supply, and maintain the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision-guided air-to-ground weapon system in India. This collaboration strengthens the India–France defence partnership and furthers India's commitment to enhancing domestic defence manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ initiative.

The HAMMER weapon system is designed for precise, long-range strikes against high-value and hardened targets. It features a range of up to 70 km, making it highly effective in stand-off engagements, even in challenging terrains such as mountains. The system can be deployed on advanced fighter aircraft like the Dassault Rafale and HAL Tejas, offering enhanced operational capabilities.

Under this joint venture, BEL will manage the final assembly, testing, and quality control, ensuring the weapon system meets the highest standards. The venture also includes phased technology transfer, with an ambitious goal of achieving up to 60% indigenization in production. This will help India build a self-sustaining supply chain, reduce reliance on imports, and ensure faster deployment of the system.

Initially excluded from the Rafale deal due to cost constraints, the HAMMER system was later procured for emergency use. This joint venture now guarantees India a reliable and cost-effective supply of this advanced weapon, enhancing its strategic defence capabilities.

The partnership between India and France has already resulted in successful collaborations in areas such as Rafale fighter aircraft and Scorpene-class submarines. The HAMMER joint venture adds another layer of technological depth to this evolving defence relationship, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in advanced military technology.

By focusing on indigenous production, this project aligns with India's goal of achieving greater self-reliance in defence and strengthening its military capabilities for the future.