Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd (KSSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with FN Herstal, a wholly owned subsidiary of FN Browning Group, to explore local manufacturing and technology cooperation for defence systems in India. The partnership will focus on building capabilities in small arms, integrated weapon systems and counter-unmanned aerial system (C-UAS) solutions. The two companies will also evaluate the setting up of a dedicated production centre in India and the possibility of forming a strategic alliance or joint venture.
The agreement supports the Government of India’s Make in India programme and aims to increase domestic manufacturing and technology capabilities in the defence sector. The companies will jointly assess potential projects primarily aimed at meeting the requirements of the Indian market.
The proposed cooperation is expected to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing base and improve domestic participation in defence procurement programmes. It could also provide the Indian armed forces with greater security of supply and reduce dependence on overseas sources for critical defence systems.
Amit Kalyani, Vice Chairman and Joint Managing Director, Bharat Forge Ltd., said the partnership will combine FN Herstal’s defence portfolio and experience with KSSL’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities. He said the companies aim to deliver advanced defence products from India for both domestic and international markets while supporting India’s defence modernisation and the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision.
Julien Compere, Chief Executive Officer, FN Browning Group, said India is a strategic partner for FN Herstal and that the agreement marks an important step towards developing long-term defence manufacturing capabilities in the country. He said the partnership would combine FN Herstal’s defence solutions with KSSL’s industrial capabilities and support local manufacturing, technology cooperation and the development of defence capabilities for the Indian armed forces.
KSSL is the defence arm of the Kalyani Group and has more than six decades of experience in engineering, metallurgy, design and advanced manufacturing. Its portfolio covers artillery systems, armoured and protected vehicles, small arms, ammunition, marine systems and unmanned platforms.
FN Herstal, based in Herstal, Belgium, designs and manufactures small-calibre weapons, ammunition and integrated weapon systems for armed forces and law enforcement agencies. Founded in 1889, the company has more than 135 years of experience in the defence sector.
