New Delhi, September 3: The defense cooperation between India and Belgium is set to expand beyond mere political discussions. Both nations are preparing to implement partnerships in military training, maritime security, defense technology, and defense production. During the visit of Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever and Defense and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken to India, ten significant agreements related to the defense industry will be signed.
Accompanying the Prime Minister is a high-level delegation of 15 defense companies, most of which are represented by their CEOs. The proposed agreements are expected to initiate the production and assembly of various Belgian defense technologies in India, including rockets, ammunition, weapon systems, drones, radar, and maritime security technologies.
Theo Francken emphasized India’s emergence as a rapidly growing economic and military power in the Indo-Pacific region, stating, “The security of Europe and Asia can no longer be viewed separately. The ongoing war in Ukraine and military collaborations with Iran and North Korea are concerning. Meanwhile, China is adopting an increasingly aggressive stance in the Indo-Pacific. Events in Asia impact Europe, and vice versa.”
According to Francken, securing vital maritime routes is crucial for a trade-oriented nation like Belgium. Therefore, enhancing military, technical, and industrial cooperation with a strong partner like India is essential.
The foundation for the current defense initiatives between India and Belgium was laid during a previous economic mission, which fostered increased contact between companies and opened avenues for political collaboration.
The upcoming meeting between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Belgian Prime Minister, along with the signing of a ‘Letter of Intent’ between the defense ministers of both countries, represents a significant step towards institutionalizing this growing trust.
The agreements will establish a framework for cooperation in areas such as training between the armed forces, exchange of officials, research and development, seminars, joint military exercises, and maritime security.
Both countries will also work on creating a shared industrial roadmap for the defense industry. Additionally, Belgium’s Defense College plans to select India as the host country for its ‘World Study Trip’ in 2027.
Francken noted that the next phase is not just about announcements but about creating real business opportunities through joint training and industrial projects.
A cooperation agreement will also be established between India’s Society of Indian Defense Manufacturers (SIDM) and Belgium’s Belgian Security and Defense Industry (BSDI). This aims to facilitate participation in joint development and production projects under India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
Belgium believes that India’s large-scale modernization of its armed forces presents significant long-term business opportunities for its companies.
A major area of collaboration is maritime security. India aims to enhance its naval mine countermeasures capabilities, autonomous maritime systems, underwater robotics, and advanced sensors. The protection of critical infrastructure, such as ports, pipelines, and underwater data cables, is also included in the scope of cooperation.
Moreover, opportunities for Belgian companies in the Indian market are being explored in weapon systems, ammunition, radar, electro-optical sensors, command and control systems, and counter-drone technology.
One of the most concrete industrial agreements will be a project between Belgium’s New Lachaussée and India’s Tembo Classic Engineering. This project will establish a complete production line for two types of ammunition and provide equipment for two other calibers, with an estimated production capacity of around 10 million rounds per year. The project’s estimated value is 5 million euros, with delivery scheduled for 2028 and 2029. The Belgian company will also remain involved in machinery maintenance, spare parts, and modernization.
Additionally, under the collaboration between the two companies, Belgian 70 mm rockets will also be assembled in India, with Indian companies participating in the production process. The first fully manufactured rocket in India is expected to be ready by early 2027.
The cooperation between Exail Belgium and Larsen & Toubro is also significant. L&T is developing mine countermeasure vessels for India, while Exail will provide autonomous systems for detecting, identifying, and neutralizing maritime mines.
The initial phase includes a program for 12 vessels, with the potential to expand to 59 in the future.
Belgium’s FN Herstal and Kalyani Strategic Systems will explore joint production possibilities for weapon and counter-drone systems in India.
Collaboration continues between Belgium’s OIP Sensor Systems and India’s state-owned company India Optel. OIP has already provided over 130 sites for the Arjun MK-I tank and has developed a new fire-control system for the Arjun MK-II, capable of launching laser-guided missiles.
This collaboration could extend to new versions and upgrade programs for Indian armored vehicles in the future. Meanwhile, Belgium’s John Cockerill Defense is aiming for a significant role in India’s Zorawar light tank program, which is being developed for military operations in high-altitude areas, enhancing military capabilities along India’s border with China.
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