India, Belgium to strengthen defence, semiconductors ties

happens in Asia has consequences for Europe. And vice versa. Our security does not stop at our borders. That is why we need to work more closely with strong partners such as India: militarily, technologically and industrially.”

The two sides signed a Letter of Intent, which provides a clear framework for structural cooperation between the two countries’ armed forces.

This includes training, exchanges between officers, research and development, seminars, joint exercises and cooperation on maritime security. The two countries also intend to develop an industrial roadmap. The Belgian Defence College also plans to organise its World Study Trip in India in 2027.

“We have built trust. Now we need to translate that into concrete cooperation. Not non-binding declarations, but joint training, industrial projects and opportunities for our companies,” says Francken.

Maritime security is a key area of focus. India wants to strengthen its capabilities in mine countermeasures, autonomous maritime systems, underwater robotics, advanced sensors and the protection of critical infrastructure, including ports, pipelines and subsea data cables.

There are also opportunities in weapons systems, ammunition, radar, electro-optical sensors, command and control, and counter-drone systems. These are precisely areas in which Belgian industry has particularly strong expertise.

“With this visit, we are reaping the benefits of what we have built over the past year. Access to major programmes, industrial cooperation and tangible results. Every project that connects our technology with India’s growing defence industry strengthens both our security and our economic position. That means expertise, contracts and jobs in our country,” Minister Francken said.

Concrete industrial cooperation

• New Lachaussée – Tembo Classic Engineering: The Liège-based machinery manufacturer will supply a complete production line for two ammunition calibres, as well as tooling for two additional calibres. The installation will have a production capacity of approximately 100 million rounds per year. The project is worth €50 million. Delivery is scheduled for 2028 and 2029. The supplier of the machinery will also provide spare parts, maintenance and modernisation for years to come.

• Exail Belgium – Larsen & Toubro: Larsen & Toubro is building the mine countermeasure vessels. Exail will supply the autonomous toolboxes used to detect, identify and neutralise naval mines. The first phase covers twelve vessels, but the programme could eventually expand to as many as 59. Exail is therefore exporting not only Belgian technology, but also the innovative mine countermeasure concept in which our country is a global leader. This is by far the largest industrial project of the mission.

• Thales Belgium – Kalyani Strategic Systems: Thales Belgium’s 70 mm rockets will now also be assembled in India, with Indian suppliers participating in the production process. The first rocket produced entirely in India is expected in early 2027. The cooperation works both ways: India develops its own production capacity, while Thales gains an additional source of supply for its international orders. At a time of scarcity, this also strengthens European security of supply.

• FN Herstal – Kalyani Strategic Systems: FN Herstal and the defence arm of Bharat Forge are exploring the establishment of a joint production centre in India. The facility would manufacture FN weapons, integrated weapon systems and counter-drone systems. If this gives FN access to orders from the Indian Armed Forces, the potential is considerable.

• Pitagone – Krishna Allied: The Brussels-based manufacturer of mobile barriers designed to protect against vehicle attacks is establishing the Pitagone India joint venture together with Krishna Allied. Pitagone Belgium will retain a 51% majority stake. The new company will manufacture and sell its products locally. It is a targeted project within a specific security niche, but one with clear growth potential. Pitagone also intends to use India as a base from which to serve other markets in Southeast Asia.

Sol.One – DGVK Enterprises: The Flemish drone manufacturer is working with an Indian industrial partner to introduce its Saboteur drone and its Buzzkill and Hitchhiker interceptors to the Indian market. The Indian Armed Forces have requested information and want to test the systems. If those tests prove successful, this could quickly lead to a large-scale order.

• OIP Sensor Systems – India Optel Limited: OIP and Indian state-owned company India Optel are continuing their cooperation on the electro-optical systems for the Arjun main battle tank. OIP has previously supplied more than 130 sights for the Arjun MK I. For the MK II, the company developed a new fire-control system that can also launch laser-guided missiles. The agreement opens the door to future upgrades and new generations of armoured vehicles. This is strategically important at a time when foreign competitors are also increasingly targeting this market.

• John Cockerill Defense – Larsen & Toubro: John Cockerill Defense is a candidate to supply the turret for the Zorawar, the light tank India is developing for high-altitude operations. The programme has been delayed due to additional requirements and a redesign. The Zorawar is directly linked to India’s military build-up along its border with China. During the previous economic mission, John Cockerill’s bid received the necessary political support. The next step is to move the project forward.

• Octave – Bharat Electronics Limited: The Leuven-based specialist in visualisation software is working with Bharat Electronics, India’s largest defence electronics group. Octave’s technology is already operating at the heart of several Indian air-defence programmes, including Akash Teer, ARUDHRA, IPSS and IACCS. A new Letter of Intent could not be finalised in time, but the cooperation is continuing. The objective remains to further expand Belgium’s technological footprint within India’s air-defence architecture.

• Anglo Belgian Corporation – Kirloskar: The Ghent-based marine engine manufacturer is in talks with Kirloskar Oil Engines. The Indian company has been commissioned to build the first fully Indian-developed 6 MW marine diesel engine and is looking to ABC’s expertise to help achieve this. Cooperation would give ABC significant access to future Indian naval programmes.