BEL Delivers SWATHI Weapon Locating Radar to Indian Army Ahead of Schedule

Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), a Navratna Defence Public Sector Undertaking, has successfully delivered the 49th unit of the Weapon Locating Radar (WLR-Plains) – SWATHI to the Indian Army ahead of schedule. This achievement highlights India's growing self-reliance in defence technology and the efficiency of indigenous manufacturing.

Developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) laboratory LRDE, the SWATHI WLR plays a critical role in enhancing the Indian Army’s operational capabilities. The handover ceremony took place at the Central Ordnance Depot (COD)-Agra, where Brigadier RR Yadav received the symbolic key from Hemalatha BJ, General Manager (Military Radar), BEL-Bangalore, in the presence of senior officials from the Indian Army, BEL, and DRDO.

The SWATHI WLR is a game-changer in modern warfare, designed to detect and track enemy artillery weapons in real time with high accuracy. By providing precise target locations, it enables effective counter-strikes, significantly enhancing battlefield effectiveness. Since 2015, BEL has fulfilled multiple orders for the radar’s plains and mountain variants, continuously improving the Indian Army’s surveillance and strike capabilities.

A testament to India’s 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' initiative, the SWATHI WLR boasts over 85% indigenous content. The production process integrates a robust supply chain, including contributions from Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), further boosting India's defence manufacturing ecosystem. The radar has consistently exceeded performance expectations, undergoing rigorous acceptance tests before deployment.

BEL’s timely delivery of SWATHI ahead of schedule reinforces the country's commitment to achieving self-sufficiency in defence technology and ensuring the Indian Army remains equipped with cutting-edge surveillance and targeting systems.