Balu Forge Industries Ltd (BFIL), a precision engineering and manufacturing company, has successfully commercialised 155mm Extended Range Full Bore Base Bleed (ERFB-BB) and Boat Tail (ERFB-BT) shells and received its first purchase order for the variants from an Indian ammunition manufacturer. Under the multi-month contract, BFIL will initially supply 10,000 units, followed by monthly deliveries in mutually agreed quantities. The development marks an important step in the company’s expansion into defence manufacturing and its efforts to support the domestic production of critical ammunition components.
The successful execution of the ERFB-BB and ERFB-BT shells demonstrates BFIL’s capabilities in precision forging, machining and advanced metallurgical manufacturing. The company said the development strengthens its position in the defence supply chain and opens opportunities in both domestic and international markets.
The 155mm calibre is widely used in modern artillery systems, with extended-range ammunition playing an important role in increasing operational reach. The ERFB-BB and ERFB-BT variants are used with several artillery platforms and meet established international specifications.
BFIL has been expanding its defence manufacturing portfolio as part of its long-term strategy to enter higher-value defence consumables. The company recently secured NATO certification and has commenced mass production and commercialisation of standard 152mm and 155mm M107 projectiles in a ready-to-fill configuration.
Production of these products is being undertaken at the company’s automated facility in Belgaum, Karnataka. The plant uses advanced manufacturing systems and robotics to support high-volume production and consistent quality. The company is now extending these capabilities to more advanced long-range ammunition variants, including 155mm ERFB-BB and ERFB-BT shells. BFIL is also working to expand its capabilities in multi-alloy forgings, including aluminium, while strengthening its energetics business.
Founded by Prehlad Singh Chandock, Balu Forge Industries manufactures forged and machined components for automotive, industrial vehicles, earthmoving equipment, wind energy, aerospace, defence, oil and gas, railways, marine and agriculture applications.
Its product portfolio covers components ranging from 1 kg to 1,500 kg and up to three metres in length. The company operates integrated forging and machining facilities across a 46-acre-plus campus in Belgaum, supported by forging presses, hydraulic hammers, CNC machining units, an in-house tool room and metallurgical laboratories. BFIL said its focus remains on expanding defence production, increasing automation, developing new materials and building global partnerships while strengthening its position as an engineering and manufacturing partner for defence and industrial customers.
