India and Belgium are strengthening their defence collaboration and enhancing their strategic and economic ties. During the Belgian Economic Mission to India, which is taking place from March 2 to March 8 and is led by Princess Astrid and Defence Minister Theo Francken, several important agreements have been signed. These agreements focus on defence technology, military cooperation, and manufacturing partnerships.
A major highlight of this collaboration is Belgium’s role in India’s Zorawar Light Tank program. John Cockerill Defence, a leading Belgian turret manufacturer, has partnered with an Indian firm to manufacture, assemble, and commission the critical turret component for the Indian Army’s Indigenous Light Tank (ILT) under Project Zorawar.
Belgium’s Defence Minister Theo Francken, in a press conference in New Delhi on March 4, announced the appointment of a Defence Attaché at the Belgian Embassy in India—marking the first such posting by Belgium. These moves underscore Belgium’s intent to strengthen military and strategic cooperation with India.
Commenting on the development, Minister Francken stated, “The region is strategically significant, and with China’s increasing assertiveness, it is crucial for Belgium to deepen its engagement with India. We see India as a key partner, particularly in the Indo-Pacific.”
Belgium’s Role in Project Zorawar
A cornerstone of the defence partnership is Belgium’s contribution to India’s Zorawar Light Tank, designed for high-altitude operations in the Himalayas. John Cockerill Defence supplies the 105mm gun turret, a critical component that enhances the tank’s combat capabilities. Minister Francken highlighted Belgium’s role: “John Cockerill’s 105mm gun turret is an essential component for the Zorawar tank. This project reflects our growing defence partnership with India.”
Developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), the Zorawar tank is a crucial part of India’s military modernization efforts aimed at strengthening border security and high-altitude warfare capabilities.
Beyond the Zorawar tank, discussions during the Belgian trade mission also explored broader defence cooperation. Indian officials expressed keen interest in Belgian expertise across aerospace, manufacturing, and defence technology sectors. A notable joint venture was announced between John Cockerill and India’s Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics Pvt Ltd (EPHL), focusing on turret manufacturing for India’s ILT program.
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill, emphasized Belgium’s commitment to India’s defence industry, stating, “John Cockerill aims to make India a global defence manufacturing hub. Our joint venture with EPHL reflects our dedication to India’s modernization and self-reliance goals.”
The 60:40 joint venture will facilitate the transfer of advanced Belgian defence technology while strengthening India’s domestic manufacturing capabilities. Vivek Bhide, Regional President of John Cockerill, added, “Our goal is to equip India’s armed forces with cutting-edge solutions tailored for challenging combat environments.”
During the visit, several significant agreements were established between Indian and Belgian defence companies, highlighting a strengthened partnership in military technology. Notable developments include Thales Belgium securing a contract to supply 70mm rocket systems for the Indian Army’s helicopters and OIP Sensor Systems entering discussions to deliver advanced sensors for India’s light tanks. Additionally, the Indian Ministry of Defence and private sector firms have expressed interest in collaborating with prominent defence manufacturers such as FN Herstal, Safran, Becover, Match ID, Amos, and Syensqo, underscoring the growing defence ties between the two nations.
During a meeting on March 3, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh welcomed Belgian investments in India’s defence sector and encouraged Belgian firms to expand their presence by partnering with Indian manufacturers. He also emphasized the need to establish a structured defence cooperation framework.
Minister Francken confirmed that discussions are underway to institutionalize bilateral defence cooperation, with an official framework expected by year-end. “Defence Minister Singh has been invited to Belgium, and we have a Letter of Intent, which serves as a pre-MoU for the defence industry. Additionally, a Belgian Navy frigate will soon make a port call in India, with Indian ships invited for our Navy Day,” he added.
The deepening defence collaboration between India and Belgium reflects a growing commitment to security and strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific. With Belgium’s technological expertise and India’s robust defence manufacturing ecosystem, this alliance is poised to strengthen both nations’ military capabilities and economic cooperation in the years ahead.
Team BharatShakti
