Unlocking Opportunities: UK Defence Secretary Calls for Collaborative Innovation with Indian Startups

New Delhi, Apr 19 – India and the UK are tightening their defence ties. Their focus is on working together to develop and produce technology that supports India’s self-reliance initiative, ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat.’

At the recent Aero India 2025 event in Bengaluru, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UK Minister Lord Vernon Coaker discussed current partnerships. They zeroed in on advancements in electric propulsion and aero engine tech.

A major step forward is the launch of the Defence Partnership–India (DP-I). This new initiative includes a special program office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence, which will act as a hub to enhance defence collaboration.

During the event, UK defence firm Thales and India’s Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) inked several agreements. They plan to co-develop modern weapons systems, such as Laser Beam Riding MANPADs and High Velocity Missiles. These innovations will boost India’s air defence and connect Indian companies with international supply chains.

The maritime sector is also getting attention. India and the UK signed a Statement of Intent to create an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s new Landing Platform Dock fleet. This supports India’s aim to modernize its navy and lessen fossil fuel dependency.

Furthermore, the Indian Ministry of Defence has introduced the ADITI scheme, allocating ₹750 crore to help start-ups innovate defence technologies. Under this scheme, start-ups can receive up to ₹25 crore to fund their military tech research projects.

These developments reflect a growing defence partnership between India and the UK. The collaboration aims to foster innovation, boost self-reliance, and enhance security in the region and beyond.

This strengthened alliance is not just practical; it taps into the latest trends in global defence. For instance, a recent report by the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) shows that countries are increasingly investing in co-development projects to enhance interoperability among allied forces. This trend aligns well with the strategic directions of both India and the UK.

As nations face new security challenges, these partnerships become crucial. They not only enhance military capabilities but also promote economic growth through innovation and job creation in the tech sector.

In summary, the deepening ties between India and the UK in defense aren’t just about weapons; they’re about developing a sustainable future where both nations stand stronger together.



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