Missiles And Momentum: UK And India Seal £350 Million Defence Deal For Next-Gen Weaponry

Image Source : Indian Aerospace and Defence

The UK has signed a £350 million defence deal to supply Lightweight Multirole Missiles to the Indian Army. Built in Belfast and co-produced with Bharat Dynamics, the missiles enhance India’s air defence and support its self-reliance goals. The agreement strengthens bilateral defence ties and expands strategic cooperation across technologies.

In a major boost to bilateral defence ties, the United Kingdom has announced a £350 million contract to supply Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs) to the Indian Army. The deal, unveiled in October 2025, underscores the growing strategic partnership between the two nations and supports India’s push for defence self-reliance under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

Agreement Highlights

- The contract will deliver UK-manufactured LMMs built at Thales’ Belfast facility to the Indian Army

- The missiles are designed for precision targeting against aerial and ground threats, including drones, helicopters, and light vehicles

- The deal includes technology transfer and local manufacturing collaboration with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL), integrating Indian firms into Thales’ global supply chain

- Up to 60% of the missile systems will be produced domestically, enhancing India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem

- The agreement follows earlier cooperation on STARStreak high-velocity missiles and launchers, expanding the scope of UK-India defence collaboration

Strategic Context

- The LMM contract is part of the broader UK-India Defence Partnership launched at Aero India 2025, which includes joint development of air defence systems and electric propulsion technologies

- The UK has established a dedicated programme office within its Ministry of Defence to streamline bilateral defence initiatives

- The deal supports India’s 2030 roadmap for advanced defence capabilities and aligns with its “Make in India, Make for the World” vision

Operational Impact

- The LMMs will enhance India’s short-range air defence capabilities and interoperability with allied systems

- The missiles offer high accuracy, speed, and resistance to countermeasures, making them suitable for modern battlefield scenarios

- The collaboration will create jobs in both countries and foster industrial growth through shared R&D and manufacturing

Outlook

- Defence analysts view the deal as a template for future joint ventures in missile systems, propulsion technologies, and naval platforms

- The partnership is expected to expand into training, logistics, and joint exercises, reinforcing India’s strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific

- The UK’s commitment to supporting India’s defence ambitions signals a deepening of ties beyond trade and diplomacy

Sources: GOV.UK, Indian Defence News, Drishti IAS

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