ON THE MOVE!

The fact that we have created JVs in India is a visible indication that we are anticipating a continued growth in this sector, says Eli Hafets, Regional Director, India at Rafael Defense Systems Ltd

- Niranjan Mudholkar

Briefly tell us about the journey of Rafael Advanced Defence Systems Ltd. in India till now. How satisfied are you with the progress so far?

Rafael Advanced Defense Systems Ltd. designs, develops, manufactures and supplies a wide range of high-tech defence systems for air, land, sea space and cyber applications for the Israeli Defence Forces and the defence establishment, as well as for customers around the world. The company offers its customers a diversified array of innovative solutions at the leading edge of global technology, from underwater systems through naval, ground, and air superiority systems to space systems.

Rafael prides itself in being able to create partnerships with international leading aerospace and defence companies overseas. Over 100 offset activities and industrial cooperation have been set up with over 20 countries worldwide.

India is an important client given the strategic nature of ties between the two countries. Rafael has been present in India since the late 1990s and has continued to supply sophisticated weapon systems to the Indian MOD. Given the current trends in the Government, Rafael has been more than willing to create structures to ensure technological transfer to India, and has to-date created two joint ventures in diverse fields to support ‘Make in India’ initiatives of the Government.

How’s been the business in the ongoing fiscal and how would you compare it to last year’s performance?