New Delhi, April 8 -- The Defence Ministry on Monday finalised a Rs 2,385 crore contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) for electronic warfare (EW) suites, modification kits and associated equipment for the Indian Air Force's Mi-17 V5 helicopters, marking a significant advancement in self-reliance within India's defence manufacturing sector.

The state-of-the-art electronic warfare suite will substantially enhance the operational survivability of these helicopters in hostile environments, according to a statement released by the Defence Ministry.

The majority of sub-assemblies and parts will be sourced from indigenous manufacturers, with the project expected to encourage active participation from Indian electronics and associated ...