BEL, UK-based Smith Detection to build high-tech scanners within 3 years

Under the deal, BEL will handle front-end requirements in the market and support localisation of projects, while Smiths Detection will provide screening tech

With India’s growing requirement for large-scale scanning of containers, vehicles, critical infrastructure, stadiums and defence facilities, defence public sector undertaking Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) is readying to manufacture high-energy X-ray screening facilities in India.

Towards this objective, BEL has announced the inking a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Smiths Detection India for manufacturing technologically advanced scanners--mobile as well as stationary.

BEL officials say they cannot divulge specific scanner requirements and numbers, but the MoU estimates that BEL could begin producing scanners within three years.

UK-headquartered Smiths Detection has been operating in India for over 20 years. In October 2021, Smiths Detection opened its