BEL IAI Aerosystems (BIA), a landmark joint venture between Navratna Defence PSU Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) and Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), announced the commencement of its operations at Aero India 2025, ushering in a new chapter in Indo-Israeli defence and security cooperation.
The launch of the joint venture was attended by dignitaries and senior officials from both countries at the BEL booth at Aero India on Tuesday. Among them were Mr. Manoj Jain, CMD, BEL; Mr. Boaz Levy, Chairman and Managing Director, IAI; Mr. Rajnish Sharma, Director (Bangalore Complex), BEL, and Chairman, BIA; and Mr. Oded Jacobowitz, Vice President and Managing Director, Air and Missile Defence Systems, IAI.
“This collaboration is a historic milestone as it marks the first-ever joint venture between leading defense companies from Israel and India. It reflects the strong and thriving relationship between the two nations, and we are excited about the significant contributions this venture will make to India’s defense capabilities,” said Mr. Boaz Levy, President and Managing Director, Israel Aerospace Industries.
Established on September 25, 2024, BIA is uniquely positioned as the exclusive support entity for post-warranty maintenance of Indian defense systems. This initiative leverages manufacturing capabilities and technological innovations, fostering India’s self-reliance in line with the ‘Make in India’ vision while providing world-class solutions.
Beyond post-warranty maintenance, this collaboration will also lead to the transfer of advanced technological capabilities to India, enabling the development of indigenous expertise in critical defence systems. By establishing a dedicated support infrastructure, the joint venture will enable India to operate, maintain and enhance its defence systems independently. The long-term impact of the venture extends to creating employment opportunities, upskilling the local workforce and contributing to the growth of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, thereby strengthening the country’s position as a global defence player.
Beyond addressing India’s current defence needs, this collaboration strengthens bilateral ties and positions both nations as global leaders in solving complex challenges with cutting-edge technologies.
“By combining IAI’s cutting-edge technology with BEL’s extensive expertise, we are laying the foundation for long-term success and a stronger, more self-reliant defense ecosystem in India,” said Oded Jacobowitz, Vice President and General Manager, Air and Missile Defense Systems, IAI.
BIA will function as a beacon of excellence, equipped to provide state-of-the-art support and maintenance for India’s advanced defence systems. As a pioneering collaboration between BEL and IAI, BEL IAI Aerosystems is dedicated to equipping India’s defence infrastructure with unmatched technological solutions and efficient support services. This historic initiative strengthens the unwavering alliance between India and Israel, advances regional security and sets a benchmark for global defence cooperation.
Caroline Haïat
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