India, April 7 -- The defence ministry on Monday signed a Rs.2,385-crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) to buy electronic warfare (EW) suites, modification kits and associated equipment for the Indian Air Force's Mi-17 V5 helicopters, in a boost for self-reliance in the defence manufacturing sector.

"This state-of-the-art EW Suite will considerably enhance operational survivability of the helicopters in hostile environment. Majority of sub-assemblies and parts will be sourced from indigenous manufactures. The project will boost and encourage active participation of Indian electronics and associated industries, including MSMEs," the defence ministry said in a statement.

The contract was signed under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) ...