Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a leading Indian defence electronics company, is playing a pivotal role in modernizing the Indian Air Force's (IAF) fleet of Jaguar fighter jets and T-90 main battle tanks.
According to the company's Integrated Annual Report 2023-2024, BEL is currently developing crucial Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) for the DARIN-III upgraded Jaguar aircraft, as well as Active Protection Systems (APS) for the T-90 tanks. These initiatives signify a significant stride toward enhancing the operational readiness and combat effectiveness of these critical assets.
The DARIN-III upgrade represents a significant modernization effort aimed at enhancing the capabilities of the aging Jaguar fleet. The upgrade encompasses a new avionics suite, cutting-edge navigation and targeting systems, and improved weapons integration, transforming the Jaguars into more potent and dependable platforms.
BEL's development of LRUs for these upgraded jets is pivotal for ensuring their operational readiness. LRUs are modular components designed for quick and easy replacement in the field, minimizing downtime and ensuring that the Jaguars remain combat-ready for critical missions.
Furthermore, the modular nature of the LRUs enables the IAF to maintain high sortie rates, even during extended operations. In the event of a malfunction, a unit can be swiftly replaced without requiring specialized repair facilities, significantly reducing aircraft downtime.
In addition to its work on the DARIN-III program, BEL is also developing Active Protection Systems (APS) for the T-90 tanks of the Indian Army. These APS are designed to detect and neutralize incoming anti-tank threats, significantly enhancing the survivability of these tanks on the battlefield.
These initiatives by BEL exemplify its commitment to supporting the modernization efforts of the Indian Armed Forces. By developing and supplying critical technologies and systems, BEL is helping to bolster the combat capabilities of the IAF and the Indian Army, ensuring their preparedness to meet any security challenges.