France-India JV To Manufacture HAMMER Missiles
India’s state-owned Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France’s Safran Electronics & Defence have formed a 50:50 joint venture to manufacture the HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) precision-guided air-to-ground weapon system in India. The agreement was formalised under the guidance of the Ministry of Defence, recognising the collaboration as a key step in India’s push to boost indigenous defence manufacturing.
Strategic Significance
This manufacturing initiative aligns with India’s “Make in India” policy in defence and signifies deeper strategic cooperation between India and France in military technology. By producing the HAMMER system domestically, India aims to reduce import dependency and strengthen its aerial strike capability.
Implementation And Outlook
Under the new arrangement, the joint venture will handle local production and servicing of HAMMER munitions. While commissioning details and production schedules haven’t been fully disclosed, officials say this move is expected to catalyse further localisation of advanced weapon systems. Industry analysts note that ensuring transfer of key technologies, developing supply-chains and maintaining export compliance remain critical to the success of this venture.
