In a significant move to bolster India’s air defence capabilities, Thales and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) have signed an agreement for the initial supply of Laser Beam Riding Man Portable Air Defence systems (LBRM) to the Indian Ministry of Defence. The announcement was made on 11 February 2025, marking a milestone in the strategic defence collaboration between India and the United Kingdom.
This agreement follows the 2021 Partnership Agreement between Thales and BDL, supported by both the Indian and UK Governments, aimed at advancing the development and deployment of LBRM systems. The supply will include Very Short Range Air Defence (VSHORAD) missiles and launchers, designed to significantly enhance India’s air defence infrastructure with state-of-the-art, highly accurate, and countermeasure-resistant technology.
The LBRM systems, with up to 60% of their components manufactured in India, are optimized for defence against a variety of aerial threats, including fixed-wing fighter ground attack aircraft, late unmasking attack helicopters, and drones. This aligns with the Indian Government’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, emphasizing self-reliance and domestic production in the defence sector.
Bengaluru, 10 February 2025, witnessed the formal signing of this landmark agreement. The first batch of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers is scheduled for delivery within this year, marking the introduction of this advanced VSHORAD capability into India’s defence arsenal. The contract also establishes a foundation for long-term collaboration between Thales and BDL, focusing on technology transfer (ToT) and strengthening India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem.
Lord Vernon Coaker, UK Minister of State for Defence, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating, “This exciting partnership not only enhances India’s air defence capability but also strengthens the UK-India defence relationship, supporting global security and driving economic growth.”
Pascale Sourisse, President & CEO of Thales International, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, noting, “This is a momentous occasion that contributes to the Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision. The UK-India strategic partnership gains renewed strength through this contract, promising a significant impact on India’s air defence landscape.”
Cmde A Madhavarao (retd.), Chairman and Managing Director of BDL, emphasized the alignment of this initiative with national programmes, saying, “Our collaboration with Thales enhances our role in the defence ecosystem and supports our Government’s initiatives, boosting the local industry through global partnerships.”
Phil Siveter, CEO of Thales in the UK, added, “This contract represents a major stride in our partnership with India. Thales’ expertise in air defence will provide vital, battle-proven capabilities to the Indian Armed Forces.”
The LBRM, specifically the STARStreak missiles, are among the fastest in their class, exceeding Mach 3.0, and are designed to counter late-unmasking threats effectively. This agreement not only underscores the robust defence ties between India and the UK but also reflects Thales’ 70+ years of commitment to India’s defence sector.
About Thales and BDL
Thales, a global leader in advanced defence technologies, has been present in India since 1953, contributing to various sectors, including defence, aerospace, and digital security. With a workforce of over 2,200 in India, Thales continues to play a pivotal role in India’s growth story.
Bharat Dynamics Limited, established in 1970, is a key player in India’s defence technology landscape, specializing in the manufacture of state-of-the-art missile systems and allied defence equipment for the Indian Armed Forces.
This agreement marks a new chapter in the strategic partnership between India and the UK, reinforcing their shared commitment to global security and defence innovation.
