Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL) unveiled the first prototype of the Tactical Communication System (TCS) for the Indian Army at its Bengaluru facility on December 9, 2025, a pivotal milestone after over two decades of delays. Conceived around 1996-2000 as TCS2000 to replace the outdated Army Radio Engineering Network (AREN)—the rolling backbone communication system in service since the 1980s and inadequate for IP-based network-centric warfare—the project faced repeated setbacks despite approvals by three Defence Ministers and relabeling as TCS2010. Initially mired in procurement disputes over ‘Buy and Make’ versus nomination basis, it advanced under the Make-I framework from 2009, with BEL selected as a development agency alongside an L&T-led consortium in February 2014 to build prototypes funded at $100 million each. The software-defined, lightweight system provides secure voice, data, and video via IP routing, 4G/5G wireless, frequency-hopping, Indian encryption, and anti-jamming for resilient operations in plains, deserts, mountains, and forests. Initial simulated trials validated extended range, signal clarity, and environmental robustness, with field evaluations by frontline units, interoperability tests with C4ISR platforms, and plans for seven systems’ induction ahead. This indigenous effort under Atmanirbhar Bharat curtails foreign reliance, enhancing tactical coordination for strike corps.