Rafael Wins $30MN Indian Air Force Communications Deal

Israeli defense electronics company Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. has handed its first order for production of hundreds of advanced communications systems, for the Indian Air Force, to its new ARC subsidiary in India. The order amounts to $30 million. The subsidiary will employ hundreds of workers in Hyderabad in southern India. The system is based on information that Rafael will transfer to India under an agreement signed with the Indian authorities in 2017.

Rafael’s innovative BNet communications systems, which are classified as software, were adapted to the operational requirements of the Indian Air Force. Rafael told “Globes” today that these systems will supplement the advanced radio capabilities of Indian warplanes, while substantially extending their activity, without being detected by the enemy’s systems.

In addition to production of these systems, the contract signed by Rafael also includes maintaining the systems and assistance given by Rafael to Indian Air Force personnel. The first production order by Rafael to its subsidiary was made in the framework of a festive event during the prestigious Euro-India defense exhibition in Bangalore in recent days. Rafael CEO Maj. Gen. (res.) Yoav Har-Even said that ARC’s activity reflected the important ties between Rafael and India through other companies operating there.

Rafael has operated in India for two decades. To date, the company has invested in transferring knowhow and assembling production infrastructure in India amounting to $250 million in the framework of the Indian government’s policy of transferring to that country of production of various defense equipment under deals with foreign companies.

Rafael still awaits progress in a $500 million missile deal with India for supplying Spike anti-tank missiles to the country. The deal is being delayed by internal disputes between Indian defense agencies.

Source: Globes.Co.il

Image Courtesy: Air Force Technology