Raju Pugazhenthi
Bangalore
Summary
A results-driven and highly accomplished professional with nearly four decades of leadership experience in Defense Electronics, Homeland Security, ICT Infrastructure, and Smart City Solutions. Joined Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) in 1986 and held various strategic and technical positions before retiring in July 2024 as General Manager. Expertise in Project Management, System Integration, and Business Strategy Development, with a proven ability to drive large-scale, multi-stakeholder projects from concept to execution. Adept at collaborating with government agencies, defense organizations, R&D institutions, and industry leaders to deliver mission-critical solutions. Renowned for a ‘Make It Happen’ attitude, consistently achieving operational excellence, fostering technological innovation, and leading high-impact projects that shape national security and digital transformation initiatives.
Overview
29
29
years of professional experience
Work History
Key Contributions in Radar & Missile Systems
Bharat Electronics Limited
01.1996 - 01.2014
• Spearheaded Concurrent Design, Development, System Integration & Validation, and Trials of:
- Weapon Locating Radar
- Rajendra Weapon System
- Akash Weapon System (Air Force: 2 Sqn, 6 Sqn, 7 Sqn; Army: 2 Regiments)
• Authored Master Quality Assurance Plan for Akash covering Radars, Command Centers, Launchers & Missiles.
• Extensive involvement in QTP, ATP, SAT, and Major Trials, including:
- Kolar Integration Trials
- VRDE Track Trials
- Devlali & Pokhran Firing Trials
- Balasore Firing Trials
- Rail Transportation Trials
• Led professional Project Management efforts, ensuring seamless collaboration with DRDO labs (DRDL, LRDE, R&DE, CVRDE, VRDE).
Head – D&E SAM (Surface-to-Air Missiles)
Bharat Electronics Limited
01.2015 - 01.2019
• Achieved first-ever realization of 35 RF Seekers for QR SAM, marking BEL’s entry into Missile Electronics.
• Established state-of-the-art RF Seeker Test Facilities at BEL.
• Successfully delivered Combat Management System (CMS) for MR SAM in collaboration with RCI.
• Led the development of Single Combat Vehicle (SCV) for QR SAM, integrating Radar & Launcher.
• Played a key role in setting up the Defence System Integration Complex (DSIC) at Palasamudram.
• Strategically facilitated BEL’s entry into the Arms & Ammunition business via an MoU with Tamil Nadu Explosives Ltd.
General Manager – Homeland Security & Smart Cities
Bharat Electronics Limited
12.2019 - 07.2024
• Spearheaded execution of Information, Communication & Technology (ICT) Projects across multiple domains.
• Led the completion of 18 Smart Cities, including Chandigarh and Agra.
• Delivered Integrated Perimeter Security System (IPSS) for 23 Air Force Stations.
• Implemented Naval Airfield Integrated Security System (NAISS) for 6 Naval Stations.
• Established Kerala Fibre Optic Network (KFON) for digital connectivity.
• Deployed security solutions for DRDO, townships, jails, and defense establishments.
• Built LAN infrastructure for the Central Board of Indirect Taxes & Customs (CBIC).
• Developed Next-Gen UP Dial 112 System for UP Police.
• Key contributor to Smart Agriculture initiatives and BEL Smart Township.
• Founded the Artificial Intelligence Innovation Center at BEL.
Education
MBA - Marketing
Madurai Kamaraj University
05-2011
BE Mechanical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
REC (NIT) Trichy
01.1986
Skills
- Strategic Leadership
- Professional Project Management
- Technology & Innovation
- Stakeholder Collaboration
- Results-Driven Mindset
- Leadership and team building
Awards
Won R&D Excellence Awards for Projects namely: Akash Weapon System, RF Seekers, Combat Management System for MR SAM
Professional Attributes
- ‘Make It Happen’ Attitude – A resilient, results-driven leader with a proven ability to turn strategic vision into tangible outcomes. Demonstrated expertise in delivering high-stakes projects under challenging conditions with unwavering commitment and professionalism.
- Innovative Thinker & Technology Strategist – Passionate about leveraging cutting-edge technology to drive national security, infrastructure development, and digital transformation. Adept at integrating emerging technologies such as AI, ICT, and defense electronics to enhance operational efficiency and long-term sustainability.
- Strategic Collaborator & Team Builder – Experienced in fostering strong partnerships with government agencies, defense organizations, R&D institutions, and industry leaders. Skilled in leading cross-functional teams, managing diverse stakeholders, and ensuring seamless execution of complex projects.
- Future-Ready Project Management Leader – Deep expertise in professional project management, with a forward-thinking approach to risk mitigation, resource optimization, and strategic execution. Strong ability to align projects with national priorities, industry trends, and organizational objectives for sustained growth and impact.
Timeline
General Manager – Homeland Security & Smart Cities
Bharat Electronics Limited
12.2019 - 07.2024
Head – D&E SAM (Surface-to-Air Missiles)
Bharat Electronics Limited
01.2015 - 01.2019
Key Contributions in Radar & Missile Systems
Bharat Electronics Limited
01.1996 - 01.2014
MBA - Marketing
Madurai Kamaraj University
BE Mechanical Engineering - Mechanical Engineering
REC (NIT) Trichy
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