The United Kingdom launched the Defence Partnership–India (DP-I) on February 10, 2025. This initiative aims to enhance defence collaboration between the UK and India. The announcement coincided with Aero India, where several key agreements were signed. These agreements focus on joint production and technological development in defence systems.
Defence Partnership–India Overview
The DP-I is a dedicated cell within the UK Ministry of Defence. It serves as a central hub for coordinating defence initiatives with India. The partnership seeks to deepen ties through various projects and agreements. The UK Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker announced this initiative at Aero India.
Key Agreements at Aero India
Several agreements were signed at Aero India. These included contracts for the production of Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS) and Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM). An assembly and test facility for Advanced Short-Range Air to Air Missiles (ASRAAM) will be established in India.
Collaborative Defence Production
Thales U.K. and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) have entered into a contract for Laser Beam-Riding MANPADs. The initial supply of STARStreak high-velocity missiles is set for delivery this year. This collaboration aims to integrate Indian industries into Thales’ global supply chain.
Maritime Developments
In the maritime domain, a Statement of Intent was signed to develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system. This system will be used for the Indian Navy’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet. General Electric Vernova and Bharat Heavy Electricals Limited (BHEL) are also collaborating on a maritime Land-Based Testing Facility.
Strategic Goals and Outcomes
The partnership aims to address mutual security concerns and enhance interoperability between the Indian and British armed forces. It is expected to create jobs in both countries. The collaboration will also support India’s ambition to become Atmanirbhar in defence capabilities.
Future Prospects
The UK looks forward to strengthening its role as a partner of choice for India. Defence technology collaboration is seen as essential for mutual economic growth and security. These landmark agreements mark step in UK-India relations.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the significance of the Defence Partnership–India in the context of global security dynamics.
- Critically examine the role of technology transfer in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.
- What are the implications of the UK-India defence agreements on regional security in South Asia? Discuss.
- Explain the concept of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence. How does it relate to international collaborations?
Answer Hints:
1. Discuss the significance of the Defence Partnership–India in the context of global security dynamics.
- Strengthens bilateral ties between two major democracies, enhancing collective security.
- Addresses mutual security concerns, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region.
- Promotes interoperability between Indian and British armed forces, improving joint operational capabilities.
- Encourages collaborative technological advancements, contributing to global defence innovation.
- Signals a shift in global power dynamics, with emerging partnerships influencing geopolitical stability.
2. Critically examine the role of technology transfer in enhancing India’s defence capabilities.
- Facilitates indigenous production of advanced defence systems, reducing dependency on imports.
- Enables skill development and capacity building within Indian defence industries.
- Promotes innovation through joint research and development initiatives.
- Strengthens the strategic autonomy of India in defence matters.
- Enhances operational effectiveness through access to cutting-edge technologies.
3. What are the implications of the UK-India defence agreements on regional security in South Asia? Discuss.
- Enhances deterrence against potential threats in the region, particularly from neighboring countries.
- Fosters stability through collaborative security initiatives and joint exercises.
- Encourages other nations in the region to strengthen their defence capabilities, potentially leading to an arms race.
- Promotes a rules-based order in South Asia, addressing issues of sovereignty and territorial integrity.
- Facilitates economic growth through defence partnerships, contributing to regional development.
4. Explain the concept of Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence. How does it relate to international collaborations?
- Atmanirbhar Bharat aims for self-reliance in defence production, reducing reliance on foreign imports.
- Encourages domestic manufacturing and innovation in defence technologies.
- International collaborations provide access to advanced technologies and expertise, complementing self-reliance efforts.
- Partnerships help in developing a robust defence ecosystem, integrating global supply chains with local production.
- Supports India’s strategic autonomy while engaging with global partners for mutual benefits.
