Defence Ministry Signs Rs 15.61 Billion Deal for Bridge-Laying Tanks

25 Jan 2025 CW Team

The Defence Ministry has signed a Rs 15.61 billion contract with the Heavy Vehicles Factory (HVF) in Avadi, Chennai, to supply 47 T-72 Bridge-Laying Tanks (BLTs) to the Indian Army. These tanks will enhance the Army’s ability to ensure swift movement of mechanised forces in battle zones, supporting both offensive and defensive operations. BLTs are vital for launching bridges during military manoeuvres, making them a critical asset for mechanised forces. The deal aligns with the Indian-IDDM (Indigenously Designed, Developed, and Manufactured) category under India’s defence procurement policy, which emphasises indigensation. This project is expected to significantly contribute to India’s economy and generate employment opportunities. HVF, a unit of Armoured Vehicle Nigam Limited (AVNL), is one of the seven defence companies formed in 2021 after the corporatisation of the Ordnance Factory Board (OFB). These companies now produce a range of defence equipment, including ammunition, vehicles, weapons, troop comfort items, and electronics. The contract was signed in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and senior officials from the ministry and HVF/AVNL. It marks another step in India’s efforts to achieve self-reliance in defence manufacturing. Recent initiatives include phased import bans on various weapons and components, increasing foreign direct investment (FDI) from 49% to 74%, and creating a dedicated budget for indigenous military hardware. India aims to achieve a defence manufacturing turnover of Rs 1.75 trillion in FY 2024-25. The latest deal follows a Rs 29.6 billion contract with Bharat Dynamics Limited to equip the Navy with medium-range surface-to-air missiles, further underscoring the country’s commitment to strengthening its defence capabilities.(HT)

Infrastructure Transport

13 Oct 2025

Tata, Airbus to Build India’s First Private Helicopter Line

In a landmark development for India’s aerospace sector, Tata Advanced Systems Limited (TASL) and Airbus will establish the country’s first private-sector helicopter assembly line in Vemagal, Karnataka. The facility will manufacture the Airbus H125 and H125M, marking a significant milestone in India’s push for self-reliance in aviation and defence manufacturing. The new Final Assembly Line (FAL) will produce the H125, the world’s best-selling single-engine helicopter, known for its versatility and performance in extreme environments. The first ‘Made in India’ H125 is expected to ro..

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MeitY Hosts Pre-Summit for India–AI Impact Summit 2026

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