The partnership marks a significant step in strengthening India-Belgium defence cooperation while advancing India's ambition to become a globally competitive defence manufacturing hub. By combining Thales' advanced rocket technologies and global market reach with KSSL's established expertise in defence manufacturing, system integration and industrialisation, the companies will create an indigenous capability to address domestic requirements and support international opportunities. As part of this collaboration, Thales will leverage its long-standing partnership with India and contribute its global expertise in 2.75-inch / 70-mm rockets and launchers developed in Belgium, while KSSL will utilise its local manufacturing and testing facilities to support production and integration of components from Thales’ qualified supply chain, ensuring international quality standards.
Ankur Kanaglekar, Vice-President – India, Thales: “Thales has partnered with India for decades and this collaboration with KSSL is a testament to our deep and long-standing engagement with the local defence ecosystem. By combining our combat-proven 70mm rocket expertise from Belgium with KSSL’s engineering and manufacturing strengths, we are co-creating capabilities that will enhance India’s operational readiness and advance its vision of self-reliance in critical defence technologies.”
Neelesh Tungar, CEO, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd.: "By combining Thales' proven technologies with Kalyani Strategic Systems' advanced industrial ecosystem including our upcoming Energetics facility in Andhra Pradesh, this strategic partnership lays the foundation for indigenous production of next-generation rocket systems. Beyond strengthening the operational readiness of the Indian Armed Forces, it advances the vision of 'Make in India for the World,' positioning India as a globally competitive hub for advanced defence technologies."