Centum Electronics Ltd has secured a significant contract 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. According to the latest regulatory filing under Regulation 30 of SEBI Listing Obligations on February 24, 2026, the Phase-1 purchase order is valued at ₹66 crore, with a gross value of ₹78 crore inclusive of GST. The contract marks a significant milestone for the defence electronics manufacturer and highlights its expanding role in the development of advanced indigenous systems for the aerospace and defence sectors.
Upon successful execution of Phase-1, the programme is expected to move into Phase-2, which involves the serial production and supply of AESA radar systems over a five-year period, subject to contractual terms and programme requirements. As reported in the latest filing, Phase-2 is estimated to have an indicative value of around ₹500 crore, with a gross value of approximately ₹590 crore inclusive of GST. Under Phase-1, Centum will undertake the design and development of AESA radar systems for the UH-M platform over the next two financial years, establishing the technical foundation for maritime surveillance capabilities. If fully executed, the total programme could exceed ₹566 crore (excluding GST), positioning it as a major long-term opportunity for Centum Electronics.
The radar system is designed to detect, classify and track multiple maritime targets, enhancing the helicopter's operational and surveillance capabilities in maritime environments. According to the exchange filing, the contract has been awarded by a domestic entity and pertains to the design and development of AESA radar systems in Phase-1, followed by serial production in Phase-2. The AESA radar programme represents a significant opportunity for Centum to demonstrate its system-level design, development and manufacturing capabilities in advanced radar and mission-critical defence electronics, aligning with the company's focus on high-reliability electronics and system-level solutions for defence and aerospace applications.
This contract highlights HAL's push for advanced indigenous defence technologies and strengthens Centum's capabilities in system-level radar design, development, and high-reliability electronics manufacturing. The programme further consolidates the long-standing collaboration between HAL and Centum in mission-critical aerospace and defence electronics. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is a public sector undertaking under the Ministry of Defence, engaged in designing, manufacturing, and maintaining aircraft, helicopters, and aerospace systems. HAL plays a key role in strengthening India's indigenous defence capabilities and supporting strategic aerospace projects.
Shares of Centum Electronics Ltd ended higher on Tuesday, February 24, by 3.62% at ₹2,770.00 on the NSE, as reported by ETInfra. The positive market response reflects investor confidence in the company's ability to execute this prestigious defence contract. However, shares of Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd ended lower on Tuesday, February 24, by 1.66% at ₹3,958.50 on the NSE, indicating mixed market sentiment toward the contract award. The contract represents a significant milestone for Centum in the defence electronics sector, strengthening its long-standing relationship with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited and demonstrating the company's system-level capabilities in advanced radar technology.
