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UK-India sign defence deals to boost indigenous manufacturing
The agreements reinforce India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative while contributing to economic growth and strategic defence cooperation between both nations.
UK Defence Minister Vernon Coaker / Image- GOV.UK
The United Kingdom launched the Defence Partnership-India (DP-I) adding defence as another key aspect of the UK-India strategic partnership on Feb. 10. The two countries also signed key defence agreements at Aero India 2025, India’s aerospace and defense exhibition, held biennially at Yelahanka Air Force Station in Bengaluru.
UK Defence Minister Vernon Coaker inaugurated the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion at the event, marking the establishment of a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence to enhance bilateral defence collaboration.
A productive first day at Asia's biggest air show. @Vernon_Coaker formally launched the Defence Partnership - India, a clear statement of the UK's commitment of deepening defence collaboration with India. More details here: https://t.co/PQJ5D3nEIO pic.twitter.com/NhghuaTuDw
— UK Defence in India (@UKDefenceIndia) February 10, 2025
As part of expanding cooperation on next-generation weapons in air defence, Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed a contract for the supply of Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM), including High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers, with initial deliveries set for this year.
Further collaboration between Thales and BDL will focus on producing Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), integrating Indian industry into Thales’ global supply chain. "India is taking significant steps in its journey to become Atmanirbhar in its defence capabilities. The UK is really looking forward to working with India as a partner of choice in supporting this ambition," British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron said.
Additionally, Matra BAe Dynamics UK (MBDA UK) and BDL are developing an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad to equip India’s fighter jets and support exports.
In the maritime sector, the UK and India signed a Statement of Intent to develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. GE Vernova and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) are collaborating to build India’s first maritime land-based testing facility, with an LPD expected to be operational by 2030.
"It was a pleasure to visit India and continue to grow our already strong defence relationship. Our Defence Partnership and the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion will help strengthen our cooperation further, supporting economic growth in both our countries and India's Atmanirbhar ambition," Coaker said.
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