Pune:Bharat Forge Readying Massive Jejuri Facility for Manufacturing Advanced Indigenous Artillery Systems!
Reported by Mubarak Ansari
Pune, 2nd April 2025: Bharat Forge Limited (BFL), a global leader in metal forging and engineering, has built its state-of-the-art 3 lakh sq. ft. defence manufacturing facility in Jejuri, near Pune. This world-class plant, designed with a multi-model flexible layout and integrated testing capabilities, is set to become a key hub for indigenous artillery systems and specialist defence vehicles, reinforcing India’s commitment to self-reliance in defence production under the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative.
However, the plant is currently awaiting due final approvals before it can commence full-scale operations.
Strategically located with excellent highway connectivity and proximity to key suppliers, the Jejuri facility benefits from access to a highly skilled talent pool within a dynamic local ecosystem. The plant is equipped to manufacture a diverse range of advanced defence systems and aims to gradually become a hub for all major product manufacturing.
Speaking about the facility, Baba Kalyani, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge, said, “The Jejuri plant is a landmark step in advancing India’s defence manufacturing capabilities. It embodies our commitment to designing and producing world-class artillery and mobility solutions that will define the future of warfare. The ATAGS program is a testament to Indian engineering excellence, and with this facility, we are laying the foundation for India’s long-term strategic defence technology independence.”
Bharat Forge has invested significantly in this facility, anticipating large-scale defence contracts from both domestic and international markets. The plant will manufacture orders from India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) for indigenously developed Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS). These cutting-edge 155mm howitzers are expected to significantly enhance India’s artillery firepower and safeguard its borders.
Additionally, Bharat Forge has already begun exporting these advanced artillery systems to friendly nations, following approvals from the MoD and relevant authorities. The company’s robust order book reflects its growing presence in the global defence market, with nearly 80% of its total orders being export-driven, catering to countries such as the United States and those in Europe.
Highlighting the future of defence manufacturing, Amit Kalyani, Joint Managing Director of Bharat Forge, stated, “The future of warfare is evolving, and AI-driven automation will play a pivotal role in transforming defence capabilities globally. Our focus is on integrating cutting-edge AI and robotics into our indigenous defence products. This will allow us to convert manned systems into unmanned ones while ensuring greater accuracy and a higher target range.”
With support from the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the Ministry of Defence, private players like Bharat Forge are now able to develop highly advanced indigenous defence machinery. This collaborative effort is positioning India as a formidable force in global defence technology.
With this latest expansion, Bharat Forge reaffirms its leadership in the defence sector, setting new benchmarks for innovation, self-reliance, and global competitiveness.
