Ordnance Factories to observe foundation day
New Delhi: The Ordnance Factories are observing their 219th foundation day on the 18th March 2020. The first Ordnance Factory, now known as the ‘Gun and Shell Factory' Cossipore in Kolkata was established on this day. From thesebeginnings the OFB has evolved into one of largest defence manufacturing conglomerates in the world with more than 90% of indigenous content and a strong technological and R&D infrastructure which currently contributes to 25% of revenue. The highlight of the previous year, the handing over of "Dhanush" 155 X 42 artillery gun system to the Army, was followed this year by the dedication of the upgunned version of the 1950s vintage Russian 130mm to 150X45 calibre known as "Sharang" at the recently concluded DEFEXPO at Lucknow. In addition, a number of products such as electronic fuzes, 40mm under Barrel Grenade Launcher Ammunition, the 5.56 X 30 mmJoint Venture Protection Carbine (JVPC) alpha version, the 7.62 X 51 mm belt fed light machine gun (LMG). The OFB is currently developing many critical weapon systems which entail mastery over cutting edge technologies.
Prominent among these is the upgraded BMP II which is an infantry combat vehicle (ICV) and will incorporate technologies such as advanced target tracking, a new fire control system and will be equipped with missile firing capability.
