RRP will design and manufacture high-precision germanium lenses tailored to BEL’s operational and technical requirements for defence applications
Indian defence manufacturer RRP Defence has secured an order worth about INR 298 million from Bharat Electronics Limited, an Indian public sector aerospace and defence electronics company, headquartered in Bengaluru for the supply of germanium lenses used in thermal imaging and infrared systems, marking a step in India’s push to expand indigenous defence manufacturing.
In a press statement, RRP says that under the contract, it will design and manufacture high-precision germanium lenses tailored to BEL’s operational and technical requirements for defence applications. The lenses are critical components in infrared and electro-optical systems deployed in surveillance, target acquisition and thermal imaging equipment.
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The statement adds that the order comes as India increases investment in domestic defence production to reduce dependence on imports in strategic sectors.
The germanium lenses play a central role in thermal cameras and infrared sensors because of their ability to transmit infrared radiation. These components are widely used in weapon sights, night-vision platforms, surveillance systems and other defence technologies operating in low-visibility conditions.
According to the statement, the development also builds on a recently signed memorandum of understanding between BEL and the RRP Group to collaborate in areas including semiconductors, electro-optics and unmanned systems.
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RRP Defence has been expanding its presence in defence technologies through investments in thermal imaging systems, electro-optical equipment, UAV platforms and semiconductor-linked technologies. The company develops thermal cameras, thermal imaging sights, reflex sights and surveillance systems for defence use.

Rajendra Chodankar
“This order from BEL is a strong validation of RRP Defence’s capabilities in advanced electro-optics and precision optical engineering. 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. Our continued collaboration with BEL reflects a shared vision to strengthen India’s defence preparedness through innovation, precision, and technological self-reliance,” says Rajendra Chodankar, Founder & Chairman, RRP Group of Companies.