The Indian Navy has signed a significant contract with Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL), Bengaluru, for the implementation of the National Maritime Domain Awareness (NMDA) Project, a major step toward strengthening India’s maritime and coastal security architecture. The contract was signed in the presence of Deputy Chief of the Naval Staff Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti and BEL Chairman and Managing Director Manoj Jain.
This ambitious project will usher in an integrated and comprehensive approach to maritime data collation, analysis, and real-time information sharing among various maritime stakeholders. It involves a major technological leap, transitioning from the existing National Command, Control, Communication and Intelligence (NC3I) Network to an upgraded NMDA Network embedded with artificial intelligence-enabled software systems. The AI integration will enhance threat detection, operational efficiency, and predictive maritime surveillance.
A key component of the project is the transformation of the current Information Management and Analysis Centre (IMAC) in Gurugram. IMAC, the existing nodal hub of the NC3I Network, will be upgraded into a state-of-the-art Multi-Agency NMDA Centre. This upgraded facility will host representatives from multiple national agencies, enabling seamless inter-agency coordination and strategic situational awareness in real time.
The NMDA Project will be executed on a turnkey basis and will be fully administered by the Indian Navy. It marks a decisive step in bolstering national maritime infrastructure through multi-domain integration and reflects the government’s long-term vision to secure India’s extensive coastline and maritime interests.
