Centum Electronics Limited (Centum) has received an order from Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the design and development of the Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar System for the Utility Helicopter–Maritime (UH-M) platform. The announcement was issued in Bengaluru on 24 February 2026 and frames the contract as a significant milestone for Centum in indigenous defence electronics. The programme was described as intended to support maritime surveillance capabilities of the helicopter platform.

The AESA Radar System is intended to detect, classify and track multiple maritime targets to enhance operational and surveillance performance in maritime environments. The current contract relates to Phase one, covering the design and development of radar systems to be delivered over the next two financial years. Project progression is contingent on successful execution of Phase one and subject to contractual terms and programme requirements.

The Phase one purchase order value was stated at Rs 660 million (mn) and the gross value inclusive of GST at Rs 780 million (mn). The company indicated that Phase two is indicative and envisages serial production and supply, with an estimated value of Rs five billion (bn) and a gross value of approximately Rs five point nine billion (bn) inclusive of GST. The conversion of values to million and billion figures follows standard industry reporting practices to clarify scale and scope. Financial realisation and timelines remain subject to contract finalisation and regulatory processes.

Centum emphasised that the programme offers an opportunity to demonstrate system level design, development and manufacturing capabilities in advanced radar and mission critical defence electronics. The engagement is expected to strengthen the long standing relationship between Centum and HAL and to support the development of indigenous capabilities for the UH-M platform. Centum was described as a leading electronics system design and manufacturing company serving defence, aerospace, space, industrial, transportation and medical sectors.