Thales and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), the wholly owned defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge Limited, have signed a Strategic Alliance Agreement to establish an industrial capability for 70-mm rocket systems in India. The agreement was signed during the Belgian state visit to India and builds on the companies’ decade-long relationship. It is aimed at supporting India’s Make in India programme through local production, technology transfer and development of a domestic supply chain for advanced rocket systems.
Under the agreement, the two companies will explore cooperation for both unguided and laser-guided versions of Thales’ 70-mm rocket systems and related equipment. The systems are already used by the Indian Armed Forces. Thales will bring its experience in 2.75-inch/70-mm rockets and launchers developed in Belgium, while KSSL will use its manufacturing, system integration and testing capabilities in India. Components from Thales’ qualified supply chain will be integrated and tested locally to meet international quality standards.
The companies are targeting the production of the first fully assembled rocket in India by early 2027. The partnership is also expected to help develop a strong local supply chain and create opportunities for India to serve as a manufacturing and export base for 70-mm rocket systems.
Ankur Kanaglekar, Vice-President – India, Thales, said the agreement reflects Thales’ long-standing partnership with India and its commitment to working with the country’s defence industry. He said the combination of Thales’ rocket technology and KSSL’s engineering and manufacturing capabilities would support India’s operational readiness and self-reliance in critical defence technologies.
Neelesh Tungar, CEO, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd., said the partnership would combine Thales’ proven technology with KSSL’s industrial capabilities, including its upcoming energetics facility in Andhra Pradesh. He said the initiative would support indigenous production of next-generation rocket systems and strengthen India’s position as a global defence manufacturing hub.
Thales’ 70-mm rocket systems are used by 70 armed forces across 55 countries. They can be integrated across air, land and maritime platforms, including helicopters such as the Advanced Light Helicopter and Light Combat Helicopter. The company is also developing applications for counter-drone missions.
KSSL has more than six decades of experience in defence engineering and manufacturing. Its portfolio includes artillery systems, armoured vehicles, small arms, ammunition, marine systems and unmanned platforms. Thales has been present in India since 1953 and employs more than 2,400 people with its joint ventures. The company operates engineering centres and an avionics maintenance facility in the country.
