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Indian Army Issues ₹30,000 Crore Tender to BEL for 'Anant Shastra' Air Defence Missile Systems

By Gireesh Vasishta
Indian Army Issues ₹30,000 Crore Tender to BEL for 'Anant Shastra' Air Defence Missile Systems

Procurement Scope: The tender covers the supply and integration of the systems, which are designed to provide rapid response against aerial threats. Each regiment typically includes multiple firing units, radars, and command posts.

The Indian Army has floated a massive tender valued at approximately ₹30,000 crore to Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for the acquisition of five to six regiments of the advanced 'Anant Shastra' surface-to-air missile (SAM) weapon systems. Previously referred to as the Quick Reaction Surface to Air Missile (QRSAM) system, this indigenous development by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) marks a significant step towards bolstering the nation's air defence capabilities along its sensitive borders.

Key Details of the Tender

  • Procurement Scope: The tender covers the supply and integration of the systems, which are designed to provide rapid response against aerial threats. Each regiment typically includes multiple firing units, radars, and command posts.

  • Strategic Purpose: These systems will enhance the Army Air Defence (AAD) network, particularly along the western (Pakistan) and northern (China) borders. They complement existing short-to-medium-range systems like the Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MR-SAM) and Akash, which have an engagement range of about 30 km. The 'Anant Shastra' is engineered for high mobility, enabling search, tracking, and engagement of targets even while on the move or during brief halts—ideal for dynamic battlefield scenarios.Also Read: Dharmasthala Case: CM Siddaramaiah Expresses Strong Displeasure with Home Minister G. Parameshwara, Raises a Barrage of Questions! What's the Reason?

Technical Highlights:

  • Proven effective in day and night trials.

  • Capable of neutralizing drones, aircraft, and cruise missiles at extended ranges (up to 40-50 km, based on prior QRSAM specs).

  • Integrated with the broader AAD ecosystem, which collaborates with the Indian Air Force for layered defence against low-flying threats.Levi's Men's Slim Fit Mid Rise 511 Mid-Rise Jeans

Background and Significance: The project received clearance from the Defence Acquisition Council (DAC) shortly after 'Operation Sindoor' in May 2025, where AAD units successfully neutralized Pakistani drone incursions. This underscores the urgency of modernizing air defences amid rising cross-border threats, including Chinese and Turkish-origin drones deployed by adversaries. Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi has emphasized indigenization, aligning this procurement with broader initiatives like the Zorawar light tank and next-gen radars, jammers, very short-range air defence (VSHORAD) systems, and laser-based counter-drone technologies.

This tender not only boosts domestic manufacturing under BEL—a Navratna PSU—but also aligns with the 'Atmanirbhar Bharat' push in defence, reducing reliance on imports. Delivery timelines are expected within 3-5 years, subject to contract finalization.