Inside Forbes India From Auto Components to Cannons: Inside Bharat Forge’s transformation
Aug 26, 2025
Manu And Balachandran, a Forbes India cover story writer, dives into Bharat Forge's remarkable journey from auto components to a key player in India's defense sector. He discusses how Baba Kalyani's vision and military interest are reshaping the company's future. The conversation reveals insights into their innovative R&D investments, growing capabilities in artillery and UAVs, and the impact of supportive government policies. With new defense verticals emerging and exports underway, Bharat Forge is strategically positioning itself for a transformative role in national security.
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Early Personal Drive Into Defence
- Baba Kalyani's fascination with the military traces back to his days at Rashtriya Military School and shaped his long-term interest in defence manufacturing.
- He bought a Swiss gun design on a UK visit and showcased Bharat Forge's first gun in 2012, marking an early concrete step into defence.
Policy Shift Created A Defence Window
- Government policy shifts since 2013 materially accelerated private defence manufacturing opportunities in India.
- Bharat Forge moved early into defence and stands to benefit from procurement and policy changes favoring local production.
R&D Reoriented Toward Defence
- Bharat Forge has significantly increased R&D hiring and capabilities compared with 15 years ago.
- The company now builds UAVs, humanoids, robots and spends more on defense-focused R&D that will show results in coming years.