BEML Limited, a prominent name in defence and heavy engineering, has inaugurated its state-of-the-art Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre (FPIIC) at its Bengaluru facility. The center was officially opened by Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan, AVSM, VSM, Vice Chief of the Naval Staff, in the presence of BEML Chairman and Managing Director Shri Shantanu Roy, senior officials, and members of the defence community.
The FPIIC aims to drive innovation and develop advanced technologies to meet the evolving requirements of India’s Armed Forces. This initiative is aligned with the country’s Aatma Nirbhar Bharat mission, reflecting BEML’s commitment to self-reliance and indigenization.
Vice Admiral Krishna Swaminathan emphasized the strategic importance of the center, noting its potential as a critical design partner for the Navy: “The FPIIC will strengthen supply chain resilience, manage obsolescence, and promote indigenization. By leveraging BEML’s advanced R&D capabilities, the Navy can effectively address critical defence projects and enhance national security. I commend BEML for this forward-thinking initiative and look forward to its impactful contributions.”
Shri Shantanu Roy, CMD of BEML, outlined the center’s pivotal role in advancing indigenous solutions:
“The FPIIC exemplifies our dedication to innovation and technological advancement. By focusing on core capabilities in structures, hydraulics, and machining, we aim to develop import substitutes such as diesel engines, submarine masts, torpedo launchers, and maritime cranes. Collaborations with partners like MDL will further strengthen our efforts to co-develop solutions for the Indian Navy.”
He added that the center would also enhance operational efficiency by contributing to the design of ship interiors for improved crew comfort, directly boosting the morale of personnel safeguarding India’s maritime borders.
The FPIIC is also committed to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of innovation. BEML has recruited highly skilled engineers from top institutions like IITs, NITs, and IISc to create a robust ecosystem for developing cutting-edge products. With a strong focus on addressing immediate defence needs and developing next-generation solutions, the FPIIC is set to reinforce BEML’s standing as a global leader in defence manufacturing.
BEML Limited, a Schedule A company under the Ministry of Defence, is a major player in defence, rail, power, mining, and construction sectors. With advanced manufacturing facilities in Bengaluru, Kolar Gold Fields (KGF), Mysore, and Palakkad, BEML is known for its excellence in earthmoving, transportation, and construction equipment, backed by six decades of innovation and expertise.