In a move aimed at bolstering India's defence capabilities and expanding its global footprint, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd, a subsidiary of Bharat Forge Ltd, has announced a collaboration with US defence companies AM General and Mandus Group LLC.
The partnership will focus on the co-development and co-production of advanced artillery gun platforms to meet the evolving needs of modern armies worldwide.
This collaboration comes as a response to the increasing demand for light artillery systems with enhanced firepower, precision strike capabilities, tactical mobility, and advanced command and control systems.
The joint effort will leverage the expertise of each company to produce 105mm and 155mm howitzers that are compact, robust, lightweight, and capable of operating in diverse terrains and weather conditions.
These next-generation artillery platforms will incorporate cutting-edge technology to enhance responsiveness, survivability, and transportability while optimizing crew size and logistical requirements.
Baba Kalyani, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge, emphasized the significance of this collaboration, stating, "Bharat Forge is rapidly emerging as a leading developer and manufacturer of advanced artillery platforms for the world markets. This strategic collaboration aims to co-develop and co-produce the most versatile and innovative weapon systems.”
John Chadbourne, Executive Vice President for Business Development at AM General, echoed this sentiment, adding, "A partnership like this is a testament to our company’s commitment to be responsive and dynamic as the battlefield evolves.”
This development comes amidst a period of significant growth for India's defence production sector. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh recently announced that defence production reached a record high of ₹1.27 lakh crore in the 2023-24 fiscal year.
India's defence exports also surpassed ₹21,000 crore for the first time, with ambitions to reach ₹50,000 crore in the next five years.
The Indian government is actively promoting self-reliance in defence manufacturing, aiming to achieve a turnover of $25 billion in the sector within five years. Increased Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) limits further encourage collaborations like the one between Kalyani Strategic Systems and the US companies.
This strategic partnership not only strengthens India's defence capabilities but also highlights the country's growing prominence in the global defence industry.
As of today, shares of Bharat Forge Ltd. are trading slightly lower, but the stock has shown strong performance this year, indicating investor confidence in the company's strategic direction.
