“This event showcases our collaboration"
The UK and India have signed an agreement to strengthen their defence partnership, particularly in developing next-generation weapons.
UK Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker announced the agreement on February 10 at the Aero India 2025 show in Bengaluru.
The launch of Defence Partnership–India (DP-I) was also revealed.
Lord Coaker launched the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion, introducing a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence.
The office will be a central hub to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between the UK and India.
Lord Coaker declared: “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 [self-reliant] ambition.
“This event showcases our collaboration in next-generation capability and the massive potential the UK and India can unlock by working together.”
Thales UK and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) have signed a contract to deliver laser beam-riding MANPADS (LBRM).
The first delivery will consist of high-velocity missiles (STARStreak) and launchers.
Both companies will also work together to produce lightweight multirole missiles.
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met with Lord Coaker to review ongoing defence cooperation. Their discussions focused on industrial collaboration and maritime security.
British High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, highlighted India’s progress toward becoming self-reliant in defence capabilities.
Cameron asserted: “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: collaborating on defence technologies lies at the heart of this.
“These are landmark agreements that support our economic growth and joint security.”
MBDA UK and BDL are developing an advanced short-range air-to-air missile assembly facility in Hyderabad. The facility will equip India’s fighter jets and support exports worldwide.
Also, developments on the maritime front occurred.
The UK and India signed a statement of intent to develop an integrated full electric propulsion system by 2030 for India’s next-generation landing platform dock fleet (LPD).
Gov.UK stated: “The strengthening of UK-India partnership will directly support India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ [self-reliant India] ambition and deliver the UK Government’s growth agenda and Plan for Change.”
Aero India 2025 took place from February 10 to 14.
Several British companies participated in Aero India 2025, including Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, MBDA UK, Thales UK, GE Vernova and Leonardo.
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