MoD inks ₹3000 Cr contract with BHEL for Indian Navy's super rapid gun mounts

The Ministry of Defence concluded a crucial agreement with Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) in Haridwar, marking the procurement of 16 Upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mounts (SRGM) and associated equipment for the Indian Navy, on Tuesday  November 28. Valued at ₹2956.89 Cr under the Buy (Indian) category, this contract signifies a strategic move to bolster the nation's maritime defence capabilities.

The upgraded SRGM, set to be manufactured at BHEL's Haridwar Plant, will serve as a medium-calibre anti-missile/anti-aircraft point defence weapon system. According to the Defence Ministry's statement, SRGMs are pivotal components of Naval vessels, enabling multiple engagements in diverse threat scenarios due to their sustained firing rate and superior accuracy.

The procurement decision finds its roots in the proven track record of exceptional performance against missiles and agile fast attack crafts. Earlier in 2021, as part of the armed forces' modernisation plan, the MoD approved the procurement of SRGMs from BHEL. 

‘As a further impetus to ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’: MoD’s inital nod 

The MoD, during the initial nod, stated, ‘As a further impetus to 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat,' a global procurement case of Naval guns has been foreclosed, with the quantity of these guns added to the upgraded Super Rapid Gun Mount (SRGM) being manufactured by Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL). These SRGMs provide niche capabilities to engage fast manoeuvring targets using guided munitions and range extensions and are intended to be fitted on the warships of the Indian Navy.”

The MoD announced that these Upgraded SRGMs will be integrated into existing and newly constructed vessels of the Indian Navy by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders, Mumbai, and Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers, Kolkata.

Moreover, the MoD's procurement decision is expected to generate employment opportunities, creating around two and a half lakh ‘mandays’ over the next five years. It will actively involve various Indian industries, including MSMEs, aligning with the government's 'Atmanirbharta' vision in defence production.