BEL, Israel's IAI to jointly develop missiles

Bangalore, Dec 10 (IANS) State-run Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) has tied up with Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) to develop long range surface-to-air missiles.

According to the framework for the joint cooperation between the two partners, the defence behemoth (BEL) will function as the lead integrator and produce sub-systems for the missiles.

"IAI will act as a design authority and produce sub-systems as our main sub-contractor," BEL marketing director H.N Ramakrishna said in a statement here Monday.

IAI has been engaged in joint development programmes over the years with the state-run Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and other defence industries for the Indian Air Force (IAF) and Indian Navy, including joint manufacturing of sub-systems.

The agreement was signed by Ramakrishna & IAI chief executive Joseph Weiss here.

"We see IAI as a strategic partner with a wide range of potential joint activities. The agreement demonstrates that we can work on the most sophisticated and advanced programmes for mutual benefit," Ramakrishna said.

Terming the agreement a significant step forward, Weiss said the partnership would enhance IAI's ability to provide high quality solutions and service to Indian defence services.

"BEL is a strategic partner for us and we hope this cooperation will expand to other areas of interest," Weiss added.