RRP Defense will design, engineer and tailor the germanium lenses to meet BEL’s specific technical and operational requirements for advanced defence applications.
RRP Defense, a leading Indian original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specialising in advanced electro-optical systems and thermal imaging technologies, has secured an order worth nearly ₹298 million from Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) for the supply of high-precision germanium lenses used in critical infrared and thermal imaging applications.
Germanium lenses are among the most critical components in thermal imaging and infrared sensing systems. Unlike conventional optical glass, germanium efficiently transmits infrared radiation, making it indispensable for thermal cameras, surveillance systems, weapon sights, target acquisition systems, and other electro-optical platforms deployed across defence and strategic sectors.
A homegrown player, RRP Defense will design, engineer, and customise the germanium lenses in accordance with BEL’s specific technical and operational requirements for advanced defence applications.
Rajendra Chodankar, Founder and Chairman of RRP Group of Companies, described the BEL order as a strong validation of RRP Defense’s capabilities in advanced electro-optics and precision optical engineering. He said, “Germanium lenses are mission-critical components that define the performance and reliability of thermal imaging systems. As India accelerates its focus on indigenous defence technologies, we remain committed to building world-class electro-optical solutions designed and manufactured in India for strategic and global applications.”
These optical elements form the core of electro-optic lens architecture and are at the heart of advanced systems, directly impacting imaging precision, target detection, and operational performance in low-visibility and night-time environments.
The development further strengthens the strategic collaboration between BEL and the RRP Group following the recently signed MoU aimed at advancing cooperation in semiconductors, electro-optics, unmanned systems, and other advanced defence technologies.
Founded in 1996, RRP Defense has steadily expanded its footprint in India’s defence technology sector through investments in electro-optics, thermal imaging systems, unmanned aerial vehicle platforms, and semiconductor-linked technologies. The Navi Mumbai-based firm designs and develops a range of indigenous electro-optical solutions, including thermal imaging sights, thermal cameras, reflex sights, surveillance systems, and defence-grade optical equipment.