Thales, Kalyani Target India-Made 70-mm Rockets by 2027

Thales and Kalyani Strategic Systems (KSSL) have signed a pact to manufacture 70-mm rocket systems in India, marking a fresh push to expand indigenous defence production and reduce reliance on imports.

The partnership covers both unguided and laser-guided 70-mm rockets, with the companies targeting the production of the first fully assembled rocket in India by early 2027. The agreement includes technology transfer, local manufacturing, system integration and distribution.

Thales will provide its combat-proven rocket and launcher technology developed in Belgium, while KSSL, the defence subsidiary of Bharat Forge, will handle manufacturing, integration and testing. The collaboration is also expected to support future exports to international markets.

The project will leverage KSSL’s industrial ecosystem, including its upcoming Energetics facility in Andhra Pradesh, helping strengthen India’s defence supply chain while creating specialised manufacturing capabilities and skills.

News by Rahul Yelligetti.