India, U.K. Sign Multiple Agreements to Enhance Defence Cooperation + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
India and the United Kingdom have signed multiple agreements to strengthen bilateral defence cooperation. A key development includes the launch of the Defence Partnership-India (DP-I), a dedicated cell within the U.K. Ministry of Defence, to deepen military collaboration. Agreements signed at Aero India focus on joint production of advanced defence systems, enhancing interoperability, and boosting the domestic defence manufacturing sector.
Key Agreements and Collaborations
Launch of Defence Partnership-India (DP-I)
The U.K. Ministry of Defence formally launched DP-I, a dedicated programme office to serve as a one-stop shop for enhancing India-U.K. defence cooperation.
The initiative was announced by U.K. Defence Minister Lord Vernon Coaker at the U.K.-India Defence Partnership pavilion at Aero India.
Production of Advanced Defence Systems
Thales U.K. and Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) signed a contract to deliver Laser Beam-Riding MANPADS (LBRMs).
The initial supply of STARStreak high-velocity missiles and launchers will be delivered this year.
Both Thales and BDL will collaborate to produce Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs), expanding the India-U.K. industrial partnership.
ASRAAM Assembly and Test Facility in India
MBDA U.K. and BDL are setting up an Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM) assembly and test facility in Hyderabad.
These missiles will be deployed on Jaguar and Light Combat Aircraft-Mk1A.
Naval Collaboration: Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) System
A Statement of Intent (SoI) was signed for the design and development of an IFEP system for Indian Navy ships.
Strategic Significance of the Agreements
Enhances India’s defence self-reliance through local manufacturing and technology transfer.
Strengthens bilateral security cooperation, addressing mutual security concerns.
Boosts employment and economic growth by creating defence-related jobs in both countries.
Lays the foundation for India to be part of the global supply chain of major U.K. defence firms.
Conclusion
These agreements mark a new era in India-U.K. defence relations, fostering technology-sharing, local manufacturing, and military collaboration. As India continues its push for self-reliance in defence manufacturing, these initiatives will play a crucial role in enhancing national security and global defence partnerships. The establishment of DP-I and joint defence production facilities is a significant step towards deepening strategic ties between the two nations.