Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) has received a tender worth INR 300 billion from the Indian Army for the supply of the ‘Anant Shastra’ surface-to-air missile systems. The deal covers five to six regiments of the system, which has been designed and developed by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO). BEL will act as the prime contractor, with DRDO providing inputs on technology and system architecture.
The ‘Anant Shastra’, earlier referred to as the Quick Reaction Surface-to-Air Missile (QRSAM), is a mobile air defence system with an operational range of up to 30 km. It is designed to intercept aircraft, helicopters, and drones. The system is capable of tracking and engaging targets while moving and can be deployed in both stationary and mobile modes.
The contract is expected to be closed and move into execution by the next financial cycle, with delivery scheduled to begin by early 2026. BEL stated that the order would add significantly to its order book and support further investments in indigenous research and development.
Once delivered, the missile systems are planned for deployment along India’s western and northern frontiers, providing tactical air defence for formations near the borders with Pakistan and China. The Indian Army intends to use the ‘Anant Shastra’ to complement existing systems such as MR-SAM and Akash.
Bharat Electronics Limited is a state-owned defence electronics company headquartered in Bengaluru. The company manufactures a range of products including radars, electronic warfare systems, communication equipment, and missile systems, supplying primarily to India’s armed forces.
