Sigma Advanced Systems Limited (“Sigma”) has secured an order valued at USD 102.23 million ( INR 973.64 cr) for the manufacture and supply of Base Bleed (BB) Units for a NATO customer, with execution scheduled over a period of 12 months. The order marks a significant milestone in the company’s strategy to expand its capabilities across the 155 mm artillery ammunition manufacturing value chain.
As Sigma continues to strengthen its defence manufacturing capabilities, the addition of Base Bleed Units builds on its existing capabilities in 155 mm artillery shells and fuzes. This progression reflects the company’s strategy to deepen its manufacturing expertise, expand its product portfolio and develop a more integrated offering for the global artillery ammunition market.
A Base Bleed Unit is a specialised ammunition component designed to improve the aerodynamic performance of artillery projectiles and extend their effective range. Integrated into the rear section of an artillery shell, the unit generates a controlled flow of gas during flight, reducing the aerodynamic drag caused by the low-pressure region behind the projectile. Base Bleed technology is widely used in modern 155 mm artillery ammunition and plays an important role in enhancing the range and operational effectiveness of long-range artillery systems.
Strategic Significance
The order strengthens Sigma’s position within the artillery ammunition manufacturing ecosystem and represents another step towards establishing comprehensive in-house manufacturing capabilities for advanced 155 mm artillery ammunition.
With capabilities spanning artillery shells, fuzes and Base Bleed Units, Sigma is strategically positioned to develop and integrate key components of complete 155 mm artillery rounds. This integrated approach is expected to reduce dependence on external suppliers, strengthen supply-chain control and enhance the company’s ability to offer comprehensive ammunition solutions.
The development also reinforces Sigma’s commitment to vertical integration and indigenous defence manufacturing, in line with the Government of India’s Make in India initiative. By expanding its capabilities across complementary ammunition components, the company is positioning itself to address growing domestic and international demand for advanced artillery ammunition.
Sunil Kalidindi, CEO and Executive Director, Sigma Advanced Systems Limited, said: “In defence manufacturing, customer confidence is built on consistent execution, reliable delivery and the ability to scale. The fact that customers continue to place repeat orders with us reflects the trust we have earned by meeting our commitments on previous programmes. It also demonstrates that customers view Sigma as a dependable manufacturing partner, rather than an execution risk. As we deepen our capabilities across artillery shells, fuzes and Base Bleed Units, we are strengthening our position as a natural outsourcing partner for customers seeking reliable, integrated manufacturing capabilities. This order further reinforces our commitment to vertical integration, indigenous manufacturing and delivering comprehensive artillery ammunition solutions for domestic and international markets.”