Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's scheduled visit to Ukraine on August 23rd is set to open doors for enhanced defense cooperation, with joint manufacturing of warship gas turbines emerging as a key focus area.
This potential collaboration addresses India's pressing need for reliable gas turbines for its naval fleet, amidst challenges posed by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Ukraine's state-owned Zorya-Mashproekt, a critical supplier of gas turbines for Indian warships, has faced significant disruptions due to the conflict, impacting India's ongoing construction of Admiral Grigorovich-class frigates and maintenance of existing naval vessels.
The proposed joint venture seeks to establish gas turbine manufacturing capabilities within India, reducing dependence on imports and ensuring a steady supply for the Indian Navy. This strategic move not only safeguards India's naval capabilities but also presents an opportunity for Ukraine to revive its production capabilities and access a larger market.
With the conflict in Ukraine showing no signs of abating, India's proactive approach towards securing its defence supply chains is crucial. The joint venture, if successful, could mark a significant milestone in India-Ukraine defence cooperation, bolstering both nations' strategic interests.