Thales and Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL) have signed a Strategic Alliance Agreement to explore the production and integration of 70-mm (2.75-inch) rocket systems in India.
The partnership covers both unguided and laser-guided variants and aims to strengthen the operational readiness of the Indian armed forces. Thales’ 70-mm rocket systems are already used by India’s armed forces.
Key Features of Partnership
- Thales’ role: Contribute global expertise in 70-mm rockets and launchers developed in Belgium, along with components from its qualified international supply chain.
- KSSL’s role: Use its Indian manufacturing and testing facilities for local production and integration while maintaining international quality standards.
- The collaboration seeks to create an indigenous capability for meeting India’s defence requirements and potentially serving international markets.
- It strengthens India–Belgium defence cooperation and supports India’s objective of becoming a globally competitive defence manufacturing hub.
- The partnership combines Thales’ rocket technology and global market access with KSSL’s capabilities in defence manufacturing, system integration and industrialisation.
About Thales Belgium
Thales Belgium, a wholly owned subsidiary of Thales Group, has expertise in defence, cybersecurity, aerospace and advanced technologies. It is a European leader in 70-mm rocket systems, including standard and laser-guided variants.
The company also develops counter-UAS (Uncrewed Aircraft System) technologies designed to defeat individual drones and drone swarms. Thales has maintained a presence in India since 1953, with its Indian headquarters in Noida.