Bharat Forge · Annual Report · FY 2025-26 Download Full Report

We are strengthening our intellectual capital to support our transition from a metallurgy-led enterprise to an engineering-led global conglomerate. Our deep metallurgical knowledge, proprietary IP, technology centres, R&D capabilities and strategic collaborations enable us to design, develop and manufacture high-value systems across defense, aerospace, mobility, electronics, propulsion and future technology platforms.

Material topics linked

M4 M5 M6 M9 M10

Risks Linked

R4 R7

UN SDGs Linked

UN SDGs linked: 7 Affordable and clean energy, 8 Decent work and economic growth, 9 Industry innovation and infrastructure, 11 Sustainable cities and communities, 12 Responsible consumption and production

Initiatives undertaken

Building proprietary IP-led platforms

We hold IP for indigenous defense products, giving us the ability to export weapon systems globally without foreign-licensed technology restrictions. Major platforms such as ATAGS and CQB Battle Carbines are designed, developed and manufactured in-house, reinforcing our position as a differentiated private-sector defense player with control over technology, product development and global market access.

IP ownership

Hold IP for most of our indigenous defense products, significantly improving export prospects

Strengthening R&D infrastructure and centres of excellence

We operate dedicated technology centres, including a specialized facility in Bangalore for turbine research. Our R&D agenda now extends beyond traditional metallurgy into electronics, embedded software, propulsion systems, AI-led design and product engineering. We have also established an AI incubation centre, where agentic AI is being used to improve productivity and shorten the concept-to-product cycle.

Three technology centres

Including two general centres and one specialized Gas turbine research facility in Bengaluru

AI Centre of Excellence

Established to drive internal productivity, innovation and faster product development

Advancing next-generation product development

Our R&D efforts are focused on platforms that expand our role from components to complete systems. These include unmanned systems, next-generation propulsion systems, future combat platforms, advanced naval guns and high-value engine components for data centre energy systems.

Small Jet engines in 40 kgf - 45 kgf thrust range

Jet engines developed for unmanned systems and cruise missiles

Signed MoU

For India’s first private-sector Marine Gas Turbine MRO

Developed Vikram VT 21, an advanced armored platform for the Armed Forces

Part of our ongoing efforts to build futuristic armored platforms. Platform development also resulted in indigenous competency for manufacturing 30mm turrets.

Expanding innovation and building talent pipeline through collaborations and partnerships

We are deepening research and development partnerships with DRDO and ARDE to accelerate indigenous weapon system development. We are also working with Agile Robots for AI-driven robotic solutions for manufacturing and international partnerships such as Windracers for heavy-lift drone technology. In parallel, we have restarted internal training and degree programs with BITS Pilani, IIT Bombay and Warwick University to build a steady pipeline of high-skilled engineering talent.

DRDO and ARDE partnerships

Focused on accelerating indigenous weapon system development

Agile Robots partnership

Focused on AI-driven robotic solutions for autonomous factory capabilities

Windracers collaboration

Focused on heavy-lift drone technology

BITS Pilani, IIT Bombay and Warwick University programs

Restarted to offer bachelor’s and master’s degree pathways for employees

R & D Focus Areas

  • Expanding indigenous defense platforms with proprietary design, development and manufacturing capabilities
  • Building advanced unmanned Autonomous systems, incorporating data-driven decision-making
  • Develop capability in designing Axles for all forms of ICE and electric platforms with near term focus on SUVs, LCVs, E-LCVs and Buses
  • Developing propulsion technologies, including Marine Gas Turbine and small indigenous jet engines
  • Building future-ready land-based armored platforms as well as advanced ship engines and transmission components and systems for naval needs
Precision measurement of an engineered component

What’s next

  • Deepen proprietary IP across defense, aerospace and propulsion systems
  • Use AI and automation to shorten development cycles and improve engineering productivity
  • Expand R&D capabilities in turbine technology and propulsion systems
  • Strengthening global technology partnerships selectively for advanced systems
  • Build a stronger internal talent pipeline for high-end engineering and product development
  • Increase participation in complete products, moving further beyond component-led manufacturing