UK-India Defence Partnership Advances with Co-Production and Maritime Collaboration
The UK-India defence partnership has marked a significant milestone as it transitions into an era of co-production, underscored by the recent visit of the UK Carrier Strike Group (CSG25) to the Indo-Pacific. During the visit, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Indian Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth announced two major agreements, including a £350 million deal for Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs) to enhance India’s military capabilities, demonstrating the collaborative shift from traditional defence trade to joint development. Additionally, a £250 million initiative was launched to create electric propulsion systems for naval vessels, aligning with India’s Make in India campaign. The bilateral maritime exercise, Konkan-25, exemplified the operational integration of both nations’ navies, with HMS Prince of Wales and INS Vikrant participating in joint operations. The UK High Commissioner to India, Lindy Cameron, emphasized India’s status as a top priority partner, highlighting that these efforts not only strengthen military ties but also serve as an economic catalyst for both nations. This evolving partnership is crucial for addressing global security challenges and ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific, reflecting a strategic recalibration that enhances regional stability and mutual trust between the UK and India.