PUNE: Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), a global leader in metal forging and engineering, today unveiled its state-of-the-art 3 lakh sq. ft. defense manufacturing facility in Jejuri, near Pune. The facility, designed with a multi-model flexible layout and integrated testing capabilities, is set to become a critical hub for Indigenous artillery systems and specialist defense vehicles.

However, the plant is currently awaiting final approvals before it can commence full-scale operations.

Strategically located with highway connectivity, proximity to key suppliers, and access to a highly skilled talent pool, the Jejuri plant is expected to play a significant role in advancing India’s self-reliance in defense production under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative. Once fully operational, it will manufacture a diverse range of advanced defense systems and become a key hub for Bharat Forge’s defense manufacturing capabilities.

Bharat Forge has invested in this facility in anticipation of large-scale defense contracts from both domestic and international markets. The plant is geared to manufacture the indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS) for the Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD). These cutting-edge 155mm howitzers, developed in collaboration with the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), are set to enhance India’s artillery capabilities. Additionally, Bharat Forge already exports its advanced artillery systems to various friendly nations.

Once operational, the Jejuri facility will be a landmark step in advancing India’s defense manufacturing capabilities, fostering strategic autonomy, and reinforcing India’s role as a global defense exporter. The ATAGS program is a testament to Indian engineering excellence, and Bharat Forge remains committed to designing and producing world-class artillery and mobility solutions that will define the future of warfare.

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Guru Biswal, CEO-Aerospace Division, Bharat Forge said, “This MoU with VEDA is a testimony of our commitment to work for an “Atmanirbhar Bharat”, and to create niche technologies that shall support Indian and Global requirements in the evolving technological landscape of warfare. BFL will focus on the Indigenous development of jet engines upto 400 Kgf thrust to power the unmanned systems developed for Indian defense forces. The 40 & 45 Kgf engines developed by BFL are under serial production and will be used by VEDA for all defense projects.”

Mr. Dipesh Gupta, Managing Director of VEDA Aeronautics, said: “We are thrilled to announce our strategic partnership with BFL Aerospace which will supply small jet engines for all defense & other unmanned system projects of VEDA Aeronautics. This endeavor underscores our unwavering commitment to innovation, heralding a new era of technological advancement and strategic prowess in the aerospace domain specific to Long Range Combat UAV Systems, High-Speed Aerial Targets, and Multi Barrel Launched Jet Based UAV Systems.”

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