BEML Limited inaugurated its Futuristic Product Innovation and Incubation Centre (FPIIC) at its Bengaluru facility on December 24, 2024. The event was attended by Vice Chief of the Naval Staff Krishna Swaminathan, along with BEML Chairman and Managing Director Shantanu Roy, senior officials, and defence personnel, according to a press release issued by the company.
The FPIIC aims to develop advanced technologies to address the needs of the Indian Armed Forces, with a focus on indigenization and self-reliance. According to the press release, the center will concentrate on designing and manufacturing import substitutes for components such as diesel engines, submarine masts, torpedo launchers, and maritime cranes. It also plans to collaborate with other entities to co-develop solutions tailored to defence requirements.
BEML has recruited engineers from institutions such as IITs, NITs, and IISc to bolster its research capabilities. The center also seeks to improve ship interiors for operational efficiency and personnel comfort.
The company emphasized that the FPIIC aligns with national objectives to enhance domestic defence manufacturing and reduce reliance on imports. It intends to address challenges such as supply chain resilience and obsolescence management while contributing to the indigenization of critical defence technologies.
BEML, operating under the Ministry of Defence, has manufacturing facilities across India and focuses on defence, mining, construction, and transportation sectors.