Bharat Forge subsidiary Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) has signed a Strategic Alliance Agreement with Thales to establish an advanced industrial capability for 70-mm rocket systems in India. This partnership aims to leverage Thales’ combat-proven technologies with KSSL’s manufacturing expertise to support both Indian and global requirements, positioning India as a manufacturing and export hub for these advanced defence systems.
Strategic Alliance for Advanced Rocket Systems
Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited, has entered into a significant Strategic Alliance Agreement with Thales. This collaboration is set to establish an advanced industrial capability for 70-mm rocket systems within India, aligning with the nation’s ‘Make in India’ vision.
Synergistic Partnership and Capabilities
The alliance combines Thales’ extensive experience and combat-proven rocket technologies with KSSL’s robust advanced manufacturing, integration, and testing capabilities. This synergy aims to cater to both Indian and global market requirements for unguided and laser-guided 70-mm rocket systems and associated equipment. The partnership is designed to facilitate technology transfer, promote local production, and develop a strong local supply chain.
Positioning India as a Defence Hub
This strategic move is intended to position India as a key manufacturing and export hub for advanced rocket systems. The first fully assembled rocket produced in India under this agreement is targeted for early 2027. The collaboration is expected to significantly strengthen India-Belgium defence cooperation and enhance India’s self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
Leadership Statements
Ankur Kanaglekar, Vice-President – India at Thales, highlighted the long-standing engagement with India’s defence ecosystem and the co-creation of capabilities to enhance operational readiness. Neelesh Tungar, CEO of Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd., emphasized that the partnership lays the foundation for indigenous production of next-generation rocket systems, advancing the ‘Make in India for the World’ vision.
Source: BSE
