By Chaitali Bag
The Kalyani Group set a new benchmark in modern defence technology by unveiling the revolutionary MArG 155mm/45 Cal Mounted Gun System at IDEX Abu Dhabi 2025. Mounted on a 4×4 high-mobility vehicle, this groundbreaking artillery system combines unmatched mobility, firepower, and range into a single battlefield marvel. Proudly designed and made in India by Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited, the wholly-owned defence arm of Bharat Forge, the MArG 45 is a true testament to Indian innovation in global defence. With its exceptional shoot-and-scoot capabilities, lightning-fast deployment times, and compatibility with NATO-standard ammunition, this mobile gun system is engineered to dominate even the most challenging combat terrains. Firing beyond 36 kilometers with precision and carrying 18 ready rounds, the MArG 45 delivers both intense and sustained firepower with incredible efficiency. Mr. Baba Kalyani, the visionary chairman of Bharat Forge Limited, hailed it as a “significant leap” for India’s defence industry, showcasing a perfect harmony of ingenuity and cutting-edge technology. In an exclusive interaction with Indian Aerospace & Defence during IDEX 2025 Mr. Baba Kalyani covers Bharat Forge’s strategic priorities in defence and aerospace, focusing on artillery, smaller caliber guns and turrets, small arms and naval unmanned systems. The interview highlights Bharat Forge’s shift towards in-house technology and innovation. While the regulatory landscape is generally supportive, lengthy processes pose a challenge. Overcoming this through government reforms is essential for staying competitive in the rapidly evolving technology landscape. The Asian region, specifically India, is projected to become a large defence market.
Q. What are the key strategic priorities for Bharat Forge in the defence and aerospace sectors over the next five years?
A. Bharat Forge has outlined several key strategic priorities in the defence and aerospace sectors for the next five years:
Expansion of Artillery Production: Bharat Forge has established itself as a leader in artillery manufacturing, with multiple platforms and a significant capacity to produce artillery guns. They have already exported around 100 guns to Europe and are focusing on further innovations in this area, including the development of a 45 caliber gun mounted on a 4×4 vehicle.
Development of Combat Vehicles: The company is actively working on mechanized futuristic infantry combat vehicles (FICVs) for the Indian Army, which will include advanced weapon systems like a 30mm gun. They are also developing naval guns for the Indian Navy.
Small Arms Manufacturing: Bharat Forge is diversifying into small arms production, manufacturing various types of firearms including sniper rifles and assault rifles. They have secured contracts to supply these arms to state police forces.
Unmanned Systems: The company is venturing into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and underwater systems, which are critical for modern naval operations and coastal security. These systems are designed for various applications, including surveillance and data collection.
Ammunition Production: Bharat Forge is setting up a large capacity for ammunition production, including explosives and propellants, which will enhance their defence capabilities and support both domestic and export markets.
Innovation and Technology Development: The company emphasizes its commitment to innovation, with a strong focus on developing proprietary technologies. They have established R&D centers and aim to maintain control over intellectual property to facilitate exports.
Market Expansion: Bharat Forge is looking to capitalize on the growing defence markets in Asia and Europe, especially in light of increased defence spending in these regions.
Q. How is Bharat Forge leveraging its expertise in artillery and defence systems to diversify into smaller caliber guns, combat vehicles, small arms, and unmanned systems for various applications?
A. The recent strides made by Bharat Forge signify a remarkable transformation in India’s defence manufacturing capabilities, challenging long-standing global perceptions. The company has successfully exported approximately 90 artillery guns over the past year, establishing itself as a key player in the international market. Traditionally, India was seen as a manufacturer of smaller components, but Bharat Forge has emerged as a testament to homegrown innovation by developing and exporting large-caliber 155 mm artillery guns.
Further diversifying its portfolio, Bharat Forge is advancing into smaller caliber weaponry, such as 30 mm and 40 mm turrets. Notably, it has achieved a breakthrough by developing its own turret systems, akin to those pioneered by Belgium’s John Cockerill, a global leader in this field. These turrets were recently tested successfully at the Balasore firing range alongside the Indian Army. Smaller-caliber weapons cater to a broad spectrum of requirements, including integration into naval vessels, coast guards, infantry combat vehicles (FICVs), and other military systems. Bharat Forge is already designing and building tracked and wheeled FICVs for the Indian Army, featuring the indigenous 30 mm gun. Similarly, it is developing naval-specific 30 mm guns, designed to meet the unique stability demands of shipborne weaponry.
The company’s expertise is not limited to artillery and vehicle-mounted weaponry. With advancements in fire control systems and electronic components, Bharat Forge is leveraging its artillery expertise to foray into mechanized infantry and combat vehicles. Simultaneously, a strong focus is being placed on manufacturing small arms, ranging from sniper rifles and JVPCs (joint venture protective carbines) to assault rifles. The firm has already secured orders to supply JVPCs to the Uttar Pradesh State Police and has become a prominent participant in India’s competitive defence tender system.
In addition, Bharat Forge is making substantial progress on the naval front and in unmanned systems. The company has expanded its capabilities to include unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for air and ground operations, alongside underwater unmanned systems tailored for sensing and surveillance needs. Given India’s expansive coastline and defence challenges, these innovations are particularly strategic.
Overall, Bharat Forge’s strides in artillery, small arms, mechanized systems, and unmanned technology underscore the rapid evolution of India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, positioning the nation as a credible exporter and innovator in the global defence landscape.
Q. What advancements has Bharat Forge made in underwater sensing systems to support the Indian Navy’s growing need for enhanced acoustic, naval, and strategic data capabilities?
- Bharat Forge has developed advanced underwater sensing systems that play a critical role in enhancing naval capabilities. These systems are designed to detect potential threats such as enemy vessels or torpedoes and are vital for underwater surveillance and security. Apart from threat detection, these systems are highly effective in gathering various forms of underwater data, including acoustic and naval data, which are increasingly essential as the Indian Navy continues to expand and modernize its fleet.
Traditional technologies, such as sonar, are considered insufficient to meet the growing and complex demands of modern naval operations. Therefore, Bharat Forge has introduced innovative solutions that cater to these new requirements. The company already supplies advanced sensing products to the Indian Navy, some of which are integral to strategic defence programs. These contributions highlight Bharat Forge’s role in strengthening India’s maritime defence infrastructure through cutting-edge technology.
Q. What are the current export-focused initiatives and future supply plans for defence equipment and ammunition production?
A. The current focus of our operations is centered on exports. Presently, all our supply efforts are geared towards the global market, while deliveries to India are scheduled to commence post-March of next year, as confirmed by the Indian Army Chief. Once initiated, these Indian programs will see significant progress. Already, we have supplied equipment to the Indian Navy, and several developmental programs for the Indian Army, such as the light tank, FICV (Future Infantry Combat Vehicle), and tracked and wheeled platforms, are actively underway. However, substantial domestic supplies to India are planned for later stages.
In addition to our vehicle programs, we have an ammunition manufacturing vertical that is currently focused entirely on exports. We are also in the process of establishing a large-scale facility in Andhra Pradesh dedicated to producing TNT, propellants, and other energetics, aiming to develop a comprehensive energetics business.
On the vehicle front, we are supplying a protected vehicle known as the M4, which has proven its reliability in extreme operational settings. Notably, it is the only vehicle to have successfully operated at the Galwan heights, located 20,000 feet above sea level. Beyond its application for the Indian Army, the M4 is also in use by UN forces in conflict zones across Africa, including regions such as Congo and Somalia. These developments reaffirm our commitment to providing robust solutions for both domestic and international defence requirements.
Q. What key challenges does Bharat Forge encounter in the defence aerospace sector, and how is it addressing regulatory complexities and competitive pressures?
A. The regulatory framework concerning India’s Ministry of Defense has seen notable developments, particularly with the active involvement of the three armed services in enabling the defence industry to modernize and produce cutting-edge equipment. From a regulatory perspective, this collaboration is not an area of concern. However, a significant challenge lies in the lengthy and time-consuming processes associated with defence procurement and modernization. Recognizing this, the government of India is taking constructive steps to streamline these processes and address delays, as emphasized by statements from key officials, including the Defense Secretary and Air Force Chief.
The importance of the timely adoption of technology in the defence sector cannot be overstated. As highlighted by the Air Force Chief, in today’s fast-paced world of artificial intelligence and digital advancements, even a two-year delay in implementing technology can render it obsolete, putting nations decades behind in terms of capability. This is because technological evolutions, such as advancements in electronics and computer processors, occur at a rapid pace. Aware of this challenge, the government is actively working to accelerate and enhance the efficiency of defence procurement and modernization processes.
India, as a growing economy under the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s “Viksit Bharat” (Developed India) mission, is poised for exponential growth. With aspirations to expand the economy to $25-30 trillion in the next two to three decades, the defence sector is expected to experience substantial growth in parallel. As the largest defence market shifts toward the Asian region and Europe – spurred by increased military spending mandates – India’s defence industry stands to benefit significantly from this evolving global landscape. These developments signal a robust opportunity for India’s defence sector to align with global trends, strengthen its capabilities, and contribute to both national and regional security.
Q . Could you share your perspective on the role of innovation and technology adoption in UAV development, particularly in balancing in-house advancements with strategic partnerships?
A. Our approach to innovation and technology adoption, particularly in the area of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), is deeply rooted in self-reliance and a strong emphasis on original development. As an organization that prides itself on innovation — a commitment reflected in our very tagline — we have always prioritized creating and owning our technology. This is facilitated through our in-house R&D and technology centers, which are staffed by more than 500 dedicated engineers. By focusing on internal development, we ensure that the intellectual property (IP) for the technologies we produce and utilize is fully owned by us. This approach not only strengthens our innovation ecosystem but also grants us crucial flexibility in the global market, particularly in terms of export capabilities that would otherwise be restricted in partnership-dependent technologies.
While the vast majority of our solutions are developed in-house, we have adopted a thoughtful and selective strategy when it comes to forming partnerships. Collaborations are only pursued in areas where we either lack the technology or expertise. A recent example of this is our partnership with M3Harris, a recognized leader in C4ISR systems, which includes highly advanced software, communication, and integration technologies. By collaborating with such esteemed partners, we ensure access to cutting-edge innovations while continuing to focus on our proprietary developments.
In essence, our ability to maintain ownership of a substantial portion of our technology empowers us to innovate independently, protect our IP, and navigate global markets with confidence. At the same time, our strategic collaborations in targeted areas enable us to enhance our capabilities without compromising on self-reliance. This dual approach underscores our dedication to fostering innovation while ensuring competitive excellence in the UAV sector.
