Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence PSU, announced on Tuesday that it has delivered the 49th unit of the Weapon Locating Radar (WLR-Plains) – SWATHI to the Indian Army ahead of schedule. Developed domestically in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and its laboratory LRDE, this radar marks another key achievement in India’s push for defence self-sufficiency.
Brigadier RR Yadav, Commandant of the Central Ordnance Depot (COD)-Agra, received the symbolic key for the final unit from the latest batch of 12 WLR units ordered by the Indian Army in March 2023. The handover ceremony took place at COD-Agra and was attended by Hemalatha BJ, General Manager (Military Radar), BEL-Bangalore, along with Maj Gen Vikram Taneja, VSM, Additional Director General, Ordnance Services (B), and Rajnish Sharma, Director (Bangalore Complex), alongside senior officials from the 509 Army Base Workshop, DRDO scientists, and officers from the Indian Army and BEL.
Since 2015, BEL has received several orders for both variants of the WLR, designed for use in plains and mountainous terrains, significantly enhancing the Indian Army’s operational readiness. The WLR SWATHI plays a vital role in improving combat effectiveness by accurately detecting and locating enemy artillery in real time, enabling precise counter-strikes.
The SWATHI WLR, a collaboration between BEL and DRDO’s radar development unit LRDE, is a major asset for the Indian Army. With over 85% indigenous content, the radar aligns with the ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, promoting self-reliance and a strong domestic supply chain, including support from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). It has consistently exceeded performance expectations and passed rigorous acceptance tests prior to delivery.
In addition to its service with the Indian Army, the WLR has gained international recognition, leading to exports to friendly nations, showcasing India’s growing capabilities in advanced defence technology. BEL continues to play a critical role in India’s defence manufacturing landscape, reinforcing its dedication to indigenous innovation and self-reliance in military technologies.
Established in 1954, BEL plays a crucial role in developing advanced electronic systems for the Indian Armed Forces, including radars, communication systems, electronic warfare equipment, and missile systems. Over the years, the company has expanded its expertise into areas like artificial intelligence, cyber security, and space electronics. With multiple manufacturing units across India, BEL continues to strengthen indigenous defense production, aligning with the government’s “Atmanirbhar Bharat” initiative.
Apart from defense, BEL has a significant presence in civilian sectors such as healthcare, e-governance, and smart cities. The company is actively involved in projects related to railway signaling, homeland security, and medical electronics, showcasing its diversified portfolio. BEL is also committed to sustainability, investing in green energy solutions and environmentally friendly manufacturing processes. With strong R&D capabilities and strategic collaborations, Bharat Electronics Ltd continues to drive technological advancements, reinforcing India’s self-reliance in critical electronic systems.
