BEL, IAI Sign MoU To Develop Future LRSAM Projects

India’s state run public sector unit (PSU) Bharat Electronics Limited India (BEL) and the Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to cooperate on future Long Range Surface to Air Missile (LRSAM) Ship-Defence Systems projects. IAI has previously collaborated with the DRDO and other Indian defense industries on developing sub-systems for the Indian Navy and Air Force. The MoU lays out the framework for BEL-IAI cooperation, under which BEL will function as the Lead Integrator and produce major sub-systems. IAI will continue to act as Design Authority and to produce sub-systems as a main sub-contractor of BEL, according to a BEL statement. Ramakrishna, Director Marketing of BEL, said, "We see IAI as a strategic partner with a wide range of potential joint activities. This MoU demonstrates that BEL and IAI can work closely together on the most sophisticated and advanced programs, for the mutual benefit of both companies." Ramakrishna added, "We will continue to operate under the active support and guidance of the DRDO". Joseph Weiss, President and CEO of IAI, said, "This MoU is a significant step forward in our joint work with India. Partnership with BEL will further enhance IAI's ability to provide high quality solutions and service to Indian defense services, best supporting the needs of India. BEL is a strategic partner for IAI, and we hope this cooperation will expand to other areas of mutual interest”.