India’s BEL, France’s Safran launch equal-share JV to produce precision air-to-ground weapons

India has taken another step towards strengthening domestic defence manufacturing. Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and France’s Safran Electronics & Defence have signed an agreement to produce HAMMER smart precision-guided air-to-ground weapons within the country, the Ministry of Defence announced on Monday.

According to the ministry, the agreement confirms the creation of a joint venture company with equal shareholding. The new entity will focus on manufacturing the HAMMER weapon system in India, supporting the government’s broader push for defence indigenisation.

"The agreement formalises establishment of a Joint Venture private limited company with 50:50 shareholding," the ministry said in a statement.


The HAMMER (Highly Agile Modular Munition Extended Range) is known for its precision, modular design, and ability to strike targets with high accuracy.

Producing it in India is expected to boost self-reliance, reduce import dependence, and open new avenues for advanced defence technology collaboration between India and France.