Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), a defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge, has officially joined forces with Thales Belgium to bring the manufacturing of advanced 70-mm rocket systems to India.
The strategic alliance, signed on September 3, 2026, during a Belgian state visit, focuses on establishing a local assembly line for these critical munitions.
The partnership is dedicated to producing both unguided and laser-guided variants of the 70-mm rockets.
These weapons are not new to the Indian military; they are already actively deployed by the Indian Armed Forces. By localising production, the two companies aim to have the first fully assembled, Indian-made rocket ready by early 2027.
This joint venture strategically leverages the unique strengths of both organisations. Thales, a global leader in aerospace and defence, will supply its combat-proven rocket technology and worldwide market network.
In exchange, KSSL will utilize its extensive system integration, testing capabilities, and local manufacturing infrastructure, which includes a new energetics facility being built in Andhra Pradesh.
The 70-mm rocket solutions designed by Thales are highly versatile and can be launched from a variety of naval, ground, and aerial platforms.
They are considered highly effective for precision strikes and for countering unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones.
In India, these rocket systems are notably integrated into rotary-wing aircraft, including the Advanced Light Helicopter (ALH-WSI) and the Light Combat Helicopter (LCH).
Globally, Thales has delivered more than 8 million of these rockets, equipping 70 different armed forces across 55 countries.
Executives from both companies emphasised that this collaboration goes beyond simply equipping the Indian military. Representatives highlighted that the agreement enhances India's operational readiness while directly supporting the government's "Make in India" initiative.
The long-term objective of the alliance is to establish a robust local supply chain and transform India into a globally competitive export hub for next-generation defence technologies, meeting both domestic requirements and international demand.
