Centum Electronics has secured a purchase order from Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) for the design and development of active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar systems for the utility helicopter–maritime (UH-M) platform, marking a significant step in its expanding footprint in indigenous defence electronics.
The Bengaluru-based electronics system design and manufacturing company will develop AESA radar systems capable of detecting, classifying and tracking multiple maritime targets. The radar is expected to substantially enhance the surveillance and operational capabilities of the UH-M helicopter in maritime environments, strengthening India’s naval and coastal defence preparedness.
The current contract covers phase-1 of the programme, involving design and development of the AESA radar systems over the next two financial years. The purchase order value stands at ₹66 crore, with a gross value of ₹78 crore including GST.
Subject to successful execution of hase-1 and subsequent contractual approvals, the programme is expected to transition into phase-2, which envisages serial production and supply of AESA radar systems over a five-year period. Phase-2 is estimated at ₹500 crore (₹590 crore gross, inclusive of GST), offering significant revenue visibility and scale for Centum.
The order represents a strategic opportunity for Centum to demonstrate its system-level design, development and manufacturing capabilities in advanced radar and mission-critical defence electronics. It also reinforces the company’s long-standing partnership with HAL, one of India’s premier aerospace and defence public sector undertakings.
The development aligns with India’s broader push towards defence indigenisation and self-reliance in critical technologies, particularly in high-end radar and avionics systems for next-generation platforms.