The United Kingdom and India signed multiple defence agreements at Aero India 2025, focusing on air defence systems, missile technology, and maritime propulsion.
Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) announced a partnership to deliver Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM) and High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak). The collaboration aims to enhance air defence cooperation and facilitate joint development and production of next-generation weapons.
Additionally, MBDA UK and BDL are working on establishing an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and testing facility in Hyderabad.
In the maritime sector, the UK and India signed a Statement of Intent to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. GE Vernova and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) are collaborating on a land-based testing facility to support this initiative, with plans to deliver the LPD by 2030.
British High Commissioner to India Lindy Cameron described the agreements as steps toward strengthening defence cooperation between the two nations and enhancing technological collaboration.
British companies participating at Aero India 2025 include Rolls-Royce, BAE Systems, MBDA UK, Thales UK, GE Vernova, Leonardo, Strongfield Technologies, ASL, SEKO Logistics, Jaguar Engineering Centre of Excellence, Aviation Defence Supplies Ltd, and Ricardo.
The agreements are part of ongoing efforts to expand defence collaboration between India and the UK, with a focus on joint development and manufacturing in key strategic areas.