New Delhi, India: Thales and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), the wholly owned defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge, have signed a Strategic Alliance Agreement to explore the development and production of 70-mm rocket systems in India.

The agreement covers both unguided and laser-guided variants of Thales’ 70-mm rocket systems. The partnership was announced during the visit of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever to India.

Under the proposed collaboration, Thales will contribute its expertise in 2.75-inch/70-mm rocket systems and launchers developed in Belgium, while KSSL will use its engineering, manufacturing and testing capabilities in India. The companies intend to establish an industrial capability for production and integration of the systems while meeting applicable international quality requirements.

The rocket systems are already used by the Indian armed forces. They can be deployed from air, land and naval platforms, giving the proposed manufacturing programme applications across multiple defence domains. Reuters also reported that the systems can be used in counter-drone roles.

The first fully assembled 70-mm rocket produced in India is expected in early 2027, according to the companies. The alliance is expected to combine Thales’ technology with KSSL’s domestic manufacturing infrastructure, with the partners also looking at opportunities beyond the Indian market.

The agreement comes as India continues to expand domestic defence manufacturing and pursue greater self-reliance in critical military technologies. Partnerships between Indian manufacturers and international defence companies have become an important part of efforts to establish local production and technology capabilities.

For KSSL, the agreement adds another international technology collaboration to its defence manufacturing portfolio. Bharat Forge’s defence business has expanded into areas including artillery systems, protected vehicles, ammunition and other military platforms.

The companies have not disclosed the financial value of the agreement or any specific production volumes under the arrangement.

Source: This article is based on an official press release issued by Bharat Forge
Thales and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited sign Strategic Alliance Agreement for 70-mm Rocket Systems – Bharat Forge