CNN Central News & Network-ITDC India Epress/ITDC News Bhopal: नई दिल्ली. To strengthen the Indian Army’s air defence, the Ministry of Defence has concluded an important defence deal worth about ₹770 crore. The ministry signed a contract with the state-owned defence company Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) on October 21, 2026, for the purchase of advanced low-level light weight radars. The agreement was signed in नई दिल्ली in the presence of Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The radars are called Improved Low Level Light Weight Radar (LLLR-I). With their help, the Army will be able to detect fighter aircraft as well as small and very small drones. The radars will be capable of identifying aerial targets, monitoring their movements and prioritising them according to the level of threat. This will enhance the Army’s ability to counter enemy unmanned aerial systems, or drones.
In modern warfare, small drones have emerged as a major challenge for security forces. Such low-flying devices can be difficult for traditional surveillance systems to detect. The new radars will help address this gap and make the Army’s aerial surveillance system more effective. Their ability to be deployed in plains, deserts and high-altitude areas is also significant.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the procurement is an important step towards promoting indigenous manufacturing of defence equipment in the country. The domestic defence industry and micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are also expected to benefit. The deal will strengthen the Indian Army’s surveillance capability and increase reliance on indigenous technology to counter changing aerial threats.
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