New Delhi, Feb. 20 -- The Defence Ministry on Thursday signed a contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), for procurement of 149 Software Defined Radios for the Indian Coast Guard (ICG) at a total cost of Rs 1220.12 cr under the Buy (Indian-IDDM) category.

These state-of-the-art radios will enable secure and reliable information sharing, collaboration, and situational awareness through high-speed data and secure voice communication, a Defence Ministry statement said.

This will strengthen the Indian Coast Guard's capability to fulfil its core responsibilities, including maritime law enforcement, search and rescue operations, fisheries protection, and marine environment protection.

Moreover, these radios will enhance interopera...