Under the contract, UK-manufactured Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), built by Thales in Belfast, will be supplied to the Indian Army. The missiles are the same as those currently being produced in Belfast for Ukraine, reinforcing the UK’s defence manufacturing capability and supporting the Government’s Plan for Change.
Alongside the missile deal, the UK and India have reached a new milestone in their collaboration on electric-powered engines for naval ships, with an Implementing Arrangement worth an initial £250 million. The agreement advances bilateral cooperation in naval technology and demonstrates growing industrial and technological ties between the two nations.
Defence Secretary John Healey MP said: “The defence deals announced today show how our growing strategic partnership with India will boost UK business and jobs. I am hopeful that this will pave the way for a deeper relationship between our two defence industries, particularly in the development of electric engines for naval ships and in air defence.”
He added: “As we deepen our defence relationship with India, we will harness the UK defence industry as an engine for growth, securing vital jobs in Northern Ireland and throughout the UK.”
The announcement coincides with joint military activities in the Indian Ocean, where the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG), led by HMS Prince of Wales, has commenced Exercise Konkan with the Indian Navy. The four-day exercise, part of Operation Highmast, involves complex maritime and air operations with ships, submarines and aircraft from both forces.
Following the exercises, CSG units will visit Mumbai and Goa to promote industrial engagement, cultural exchange and outreach activities within local communities. The cooperation underlines the UK’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and its strengthening strategic partnership with India.
Source: UK Ministry of Defence (press release).
