India Optel and Safran Deepen Defence Manufacturing Cooperation
India Optel Limited has signed a strategic collaboration agreement with Safran Electronics & Defense of France to enable indigenous production of two advanced, combat-proven defence systems. The partnership aligns with India’s broader push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative and strengthens the domestic defence electronics ecosystem.
The agreement covers the transfer of production of the SIGMA 30N Digital Ring Laser Gyro Inertial Navigation System and the CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight . Senior defence officials, including Sanjeev Kumar, Secretary (Defence Production) , were present during the signing. This collaboration builds on an internal agreement concluded between the two companies in January 2024 , reflecting sustained Indo-French defence cooperation.
Advanced Systems for Precision Warfare
The SIGMA 30N is a highly accurate inertial navigation system deployed across artillery guns, air defence platforms, missiles and radars . Its key advantage lies in providing precise navigation and targeting even in GPS-denied or electronically contested environments . The CM3-MR Direct Firing Sight enhances the direct-fire capability of artillery and anti-drone systems , improving accuracy and reaction time in battlefield conditions.
Role of India Optel Limited
As part of the agreement, India Optel Limited , a Defence PSU under the Ministry of Defence, will undertake manufacturing, final assembly, testing, quality assurance and complete life-cycle support of the systems. The Defence Ministry stated that this will ensure operational suitability for the Indian Army while significantly expanding indigenous capability in advanced optics and navigation technologies.
Strategic Significance
Safran noted that the SIGMA 30 series enables rapid and autonomous counter-battery operations by accurately locating enemy fire positions. The agreement follows Safran’s recent joint venture with Bharat Electronics Limited for HAMMER munitions, underscoring India’s growing role as a defence manufacturing hub.
Important Facts for Exams
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India Optel Limited is a Defence PSU under MoD
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SIGMA 30N is a GPS-independent inertial navigation system
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CM3-MR improves artillery and anti-drone direct-fire accuracy
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Agreement focuses on technology transfer and indigenous production
Month: Current Affairs - December 25, 2025
Category: Defence Manufacturing