Launch of DP-I
The UK officially launched the "Defence Partnership-India" (DP-I) to strengthen defence cooperation between the UK and India.
DP-I will be a dedicated cell within the UK Ministry of Defence, aiming to deepen bilateral collaboration in defence.
Defence Agreements at Aero India
Several agreements were signed at the Aero India event between India and the UK, covering:
Production of Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) and Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM).
Establishment of an Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in India.
Development of an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for Indian Navy ships.
Collaborations between UK and Indian Companies
Thales U.K. and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed a contract to deliver Laser Beam-Riding MANPADS (LBRMs) and supply high-velocity missiles and launchers.
Thales and BDL will collaborate further on LMM production, forming a global supply chain and enhancing industry ties.
MBDA U.K. and BDL are working together to set up an ASRAAM assembly and test facility in Hyderabad for Indian aircraft like the Jaguar and Light Combat Aircraft-Mk1A.
Outcomes of the Partnership
The partnership aims to address mutual security concerns, create jobs in both countries, and enable better interoperability between the UK and Indian armed forces.
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