The UK has formalized a substantial defense agreement with India, valued at approximately £350 million ($465 million), focused on the supply of air defense missiles and launchers. This partnership highlights the ongoing commitment to enhance military collaboration between the two nations.
Under the terms of the contract, the Indian Army will receive Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM), which are manufactured in Belfast, Northern Ireland. These missiles are not only noted for their advanced technology but are also the same systems currently being produced for Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict there.
The British government underscored the significance of this agreement, stating that it serves to fortify the defense relationship with India. This contract comes in conjunction with existing cooperation in naval technology projects, particularly involving electric engines, established through an initial £250 million ($332 million) arrangement.
The timing of this announcement coincides with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Mumbai, which aims to further strengthen ties between the two countries. Additionally, it aligns with the UK Carrier Strike Group’s participation in a joint naval exercise, Exercise Konkan, with the Indian Navy in the Western Indian Ocean. This four-day exercise features a diverse array of ships, submarines, and aircraft from both nations, illustrating the extensive military collaboration underway.
The LMM, developed by Thales, is recognized as a short-range precision weapon with versatile applications across air, land, and naval operations. With a weight of approximately 13 kilograms (28.7 pounds) and an operational range exceeding 6 kilometers (3.7 miles), the missile can achieve speeds greater than Mach 1.5, or around 1,850 kilometers per hour (1,150 miles per hour).
Designed for precision targeting, the LMM employs laser guidance, which helps to ensure accurate strikes while simultaneously reducing the risk of collateral damage. Its flexible launching capabilities enable deployment from various platforms, including shoulder-mounted systems, tripods, vehicles, or integrated launch systems like the RapidRanger.
Furthermore, the LMM is engineered to engage a broad spectrum of threats, including light armored vehicles, small boats, drones, and helicopters. In naval operations, the missile can be launched from guns or helicopters, effectively tracking and quickly engaging small, fast-moving air and surface targets in challenging environments. This multifaceted capability underscores its significance in modern military engagements, reinforcing both the UK and India’s collective defense posture.
