India, UK Sign Defence Deals Worth £600 Million, Multirole Missiles Martlet on Menu

The United Kingdom and India have unveiled a series of major defence and security agreements, signalling a significant step forward in their strategic partnership. Valued at over £600 million, these deals cover advanced missile systems, naval propulsion technologies, military training, and regional maritime cooperation.

The £350 million (Rs 4,154 cr) agreement will see the supply of British-built air defence missiles and launchers to the Indian Army. The Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs)- known as the Martlet missile, manufactured in Belfast, will enhance India’s air defence capabilities while supporting over 700 skilled jobs in the UK. The contract also sets the stage for a broader complex weapons partnership, currently under discussion between the two governments. In service with the British military since 2019, these LMMs are also being used by Ukrainian armed forces against Russian troops.

In parallel, a separate £250 million initiative marks a key milestone in UK–India defence industrial collaboration, focusing on electric-powered propulsion systems for Indian naval vessels. This joint programme supports India’s naval modernisation goals and reflects a shared commitment to innovation and sustainability in maritime defence technologies.

Leaders Emphasise Growing Strategic Alignment

Speaking during a visit to Mumbai, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer described the deals as a powerful example of the expanding partnership between London and New Delhi. “We are committed to closer cooperation on defence, technology, and regional security. These agreements reflect our shared values and mutual interest in a stable Indo-Pacific,” he said.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi welcomed the progress, noting the growing depth of bilateral defence ties. “We are advancing towards co-production and stronger links between our defence industries. These agreements reflect a high level of trust and alignment,” he said at a joint press event.

Strengthening Military Cooperation and Training

Alongside industrial collaboration, both sides are enhancing their military-to-military ties. A new arrangement will allow Indian Air Force instructors to participate in Royal Air Force training programmes, deepening professional exchange and operational understanding between the two services.

Both countries also reaffirmed their commitment to regular joint military exercises, including KONKAN, Ajeya Warrior, Cobra Warrior, and Tarang Shakti. Plans are in place to expand defence education, technology collaboration, and expert exchanges.

Indo-Pacific and Maritime Security

As part of a broader regional strategy, the two countries have pledged to deepen cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. A new Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence will be established to support shared maritime interests and enhance information sharing across the region.

Recent joint naval exercises and a port call by the UK Carrier Strike Group were highlighted as examples of the growing naval relationship between the two countries.

United Against Terrorism

The two governments also reiterated their joint commitment to counterterrorism. Both leaders condemned the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. They agreed to work more closely through international bodies such as the UN and FATF to combat radicalisation, terror financing, and cross-border threats.

A Roadmap for the Future

The two countries reaffirmed their commitment to the UK–India Defence Industrial Roadmap, which promotes co-design, co-development, and joint manufacturing of defence systems. Key focus areas include advanced propulsion, naval technology, and research-led defence innovation.

While negotiations on co-developing fighter jet engines are ongoing, both nations expressed interest in long-term partnerships across high-end defence technologies to support both domestic and global markets.

Huma Siddiqui