Raymond appoints new chief for defence unit

Raymond Limited on Monday announced the appointment of Bhanu Prakash Srivastava as Chief Executive Officer – Defence as the company aims to build a future-ready, technology-led defence platform.He is a Mechanical Engineering graduate from the Indian Institute of Technology (BHU), Varanasi, the company said in a regulatory filing, adding that the executive comes with 39 years to experience in advancing India's defence manufacturing and technology capabilities across leadership roles in operations, R&D, marketing, naval systems and strategic programme execution.Srivastava has around four decades of experience at Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) across leadership in defence technologies, large-scale programme execution and institution building.Also read: Adani Defence to invest Rs 2,500 crore in missile manufacturing complex in Madhya PradeshAt Raymond, he will lead the defence business, defining its strategic vision, operational roadmap and growth agenda as the company is making 'strategic investments' to develop advanced capabilities in India."Srivastava will work to shape and execute the company's long-term defence strategy.

He will work towards the evolution of the company's engineering capabilities from precision manufacturing into higher-value defence electronics, software, systems integration and adjacent aerospace and automotive technologies."India's defence sector is entering a defining phase of growth, innovation and self-reliance, creating significant opportunities for companies with strong engineering capabilities and long-term commitment.

Bhanu Prakash's exceptional leadership, deep understanding of complex defence programmes and proven track record of building high-performance organisations make him the ideal leader to spearhead Raymond's defence journey," said Gautam Hari Singhania, Chairman & Managing Director, Raymond Limited.Raymond aims to establish itself as a trusted private-sector partner in India's defence ecosystem.Stating on his new role, Srivastava said, "The Company has built a remarkable legacy of manufacturing excellence, quality and innovation, creating a strong foundation for entering the defence sector.

The opportunities emerging from India's focus on indigenous defence capabilities are unprecedented, and I am excited to work with the leadership team to build differentiated technology-led solutions, develop strategic partnerships and create a globally competitive defence business."As Chairman & Managing Director of BEL, Srivastava tripled market capitalisation from Rs 51,000 crore to Rs 1.5 lakh crore, secured Rs 55,000+ crore in new orders, and launched 100+ products while strengthening R&D.

He led mission-critical programmes across radar, naval and sonar systems, missiles, electronic warfare and tactical communications, championed indigenisation, and set up AI incubation centres to advance India's defence ecosystem. ...