India’s MKU Wins ₹660 Crore Night-Vision Contract

India’s MKU Secures ₹660 Crore Night-Vision Deal with Army

Mohd Hanif Ismail - : Oct 17, 2025 - : 10:11 pm

In a bold move to deepen its indigenous defence manufacturing base, Indian Army has finalised a contract worth ₹659.47 crore (approx. US$75 million) with Kanpur-based firm MKU Limited for nearly 29,762 advanced night-vision weapon sights. The agreement, announced on 15...

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Under the terms of the contract, MKU will deliver its Netro NW 3000 image intensifier systems and associated accessories — such as lens covers, batteries, and maintenance kits. The deal was awarded under the Indian Ministry of Defence’s emergency procurement powers, signalling the urgency the Army places on boosting its night-fighting capabilities. According to the announcement by MKU, the devices underwent thorough evaluations and trials before selection.

The original announcement from MKU describes the transaction as “among the largest electro-optics orders ever placed by the Indian Army.” In India’s public discourse, the contract is seen as a milestone in advancing “Atmanirbhar Bharat” (self-reliant India) and consolidating the domestic defence-industrial ecosystem.

Context and Strategic Background
MKU, founded in 1985, specialises in defence and security solutions including optronics, ballistic protection, and soldier systems. Its exports already span numerous countries, and the company maintains R&D and testing tie-ups across India and Germany. The broader backdrop is India’s sustained push to develop indigenous defence capacity. In recent years, Indian defence production has grown markedly, with exports crossing ₹24,000 crore in 2024–25 and the private sector playing an increasingly prominent role.

India’s interest in equipping infantry with sophisticated optical and thermal systems is rising rapidly, as asymmetric warfare, low-light border operations, and internal security challenges demand better situational awareness. The contract for night-vision weapon sights complements other recent orders—for instance, in July 2025, MKU also secured a separate deal to supply thermal imaging weapon sights for light machine guns.