By Chaitali Bag
In a landmark development in the defence sector, Thales, a global leader in advanced technologies, and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), India’s premier defence manufacturing company, have announced an agreement to supply Man-Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADs) to the Indian Ministry of Defence. The initial delivery will include Laser Beam Riding MANPAD (LBRM) Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missiles and launchers, marking a significant step forward in India’s efforts to bolster its air defence capabilities. This collaboration builds upon the 2021 partnership agreement between Thales and BDL, supported by the governments of India and the United Kingdom. It underscores the deepening strategic ties between the two nations.
The introduction of LBRM systems represents a major leap in India’s air defence arsenal. These advanced systems are designed to provide highly accurate, countermeasure-resistant defences against various aerial threats, including fixed-wing fighter aircraft, attack helicopters, and drones. Their portability and versatility make them an essential component for modern military operations, particularly in addressing short-range threats. Moreover, the LBRM systems will be manufactured with up to 60% indigenous content, aligning with the Indian government’s flagship ‘Make in India’ initiative and its vision for self-reliance, or “Aatmanirbhar Bharat,” in defence production.
The agreement is notable for several reasons. Firstly, it represents the first time India will receive the STARStreak High-Velocity Missile (HVM) system, a cutting-edge VSHORAD capability developed by Thales. The STARStreak system is renowned for its precision, speed, and reliability, having been battle-proven in various operational scenarios. Secondly, this partnership paves the way for a long-term collaboration between Thales and BDL, ensuring the transfer of technology (ToT) and the establishment of a robust manufacturing ecosystem in India. This not only strengthens India’s defence capabilities but also contributes to the local economy by fostering industrial growth and creating jobs.
The collaboration also reflects the growing defence partnership between India and the United Kingdom. The agreement is a direct outcome of the UK-India Defence Partnership, a bespoke programme designed to remove trade barriers and facilitate government-to-government contracting. It highlights the commitment of both nations to deepen their strategic and defence ties while promoting mutual economic growth. As part of this initiative, the production of LBRM systems in India will also bolster Thales’ manufacturing operations in Belfast, UK, demonstrating the mutually beneficial nature of this partnership.
Prominent figures from both organisations and governments have lauded this milestone. Lord Vernon Coaker, the UK’s Minister of State for Defence, emphasised the significance of this collaboration in strengthening global security and fostering economic growth. He noted that the agreement aligns with the UK government’s broader objectives under its “Plan for Change” initiative. Similarly, Pascale Sourisse, President and CEO of Thales International, described the agreement as a momentous occasion that reinforces the UK-India strategic partnership and contributes to the realisation of India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. Cmde A Madhavarao (Retd.), Chairman and Managing Director of BDL, echoed these sentiments, highlighting how the partnership aligns with India’s goals to enhance its defence ecosystem and ease of doing business.
This agreement is not just a commercial transaction but a testament to the evolving nature of defence partnerships in an increasingly interconnected world. By combining Thales’ technological expertise and BDL’s manufacturing capabilities, the collaboration exemplifies how international partnerships can drive innovation and self-reliance. Furthermore, it signals a broader shift in India’s defence procurement strategy, which now prioritises indigenous production and technology transfer to reduce dependence on imports.
The recent contract signing between Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) and Thales to enhance India’s air defence capabilities marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral partnerships. Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK, highlighted Thales’ proven expertise in air defence as a vital contribution to India’s security infrastructure. Thales’ High-Velocity Missiles, including the STARStreak system, offer advanced, battle-tested solutions capable of addressing threats from UAVs, helicopters, and aircraft. With decades of experience in air defence technology, Thales continues to be a reliable partner for global and national defence forces, further solidifying its commitment to innovation and security.
The Strengthening of the UK-India Strategic Defence Partnership
The UK-India strategic partnership has taken a significant leap forward with the launch of Defence Partnership-India (DP-I) and the signing of several pivotal defence agreements at the Aero India show. This collaboration underscores the growing alignment between the two nations in defence cooperation, economic growth, and mutual security.
The formal inauguration of the UK-India Defence Partnership Pavilion by UK Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker marked a milestone in bilateral relations. DP-I establishes a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence, serving as a central hub to facilitate and strengthen defence collaboration. This initiative highlights the shared commitment to advancing next-generation capabilities and fostering industrial partnerships.
A landmark agreement between Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM) and High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) underscores the deepening technological cooperation in air defence. This collaboration not only enhances India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) but also integrates Indian firms into Thales’ global supply chain, promoting job creation and interoperability between the armed forces of both nations. Future projects, such as the development of Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), further solidify this partnership.
On the maritime front, the UK and India have signed a Statement of Intent to develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. This ambitious project, supported by GE Vernova and BHEL, aims to deliver a cutting-edge LPD by 2030. Additionally, the establishment of an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad by MBDA UK and BDL will bolster India’s defence manufacturing capabilities and export potential.
This strengthened partnership aligns with India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat vision and the UK’s growth agenda, fostering innovation, economic development, and mutual security. By working together on advanced defence technologies, the UK and India are unlocking immense potential, building a robust and enduring strategic relationship that benefits both nations and contributes to global stability.
