The United Kingdom has signed a $468 million defence deal with India to supply the Indian Army with British-made lightweight missiles. The agreement marks a major step in the growing strategic and defence partnership between the two countries.
According to Britain’s Defence Ministry, the contract is valued at around 350 million pounds ($468 million) and will enhance India’s defence capabilities through the acquisition of advanced missile technology. The deal underscores the deepening military collaboration between the two nations as they continue to strengthen security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
The announcement came during British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s visit to Mumbai, where he met with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Both leaders praised the deal as a symbol of mutual trust and the expanding commercial and defence ties between the United Kingdom and India.
In a joint statement, the two leaders highlighted the importance of the new agreement, which follows months of discussions aimed at boosting trade and security relations. They also pointed to the progress made under their bilateral trade deal, signed earlier this year, which seeks to expand economic collaboration across multiple sectors.
The missile supply agreement will involve UK-based defence companies manufacturing lightweight, precision-guided missile systems for the Indian Army. Defence analysts say this move not only enhances India’s arsenal but also opens the door for future co-development projects between British and Indian firms.
Officials in London described the deal as a “strategic milestone” that aligns with the UK’s broader goal of deepening defence and trade partnerships across Asia. The agreement is expected to create new opportunities for technological exchange, defence innovation, and industrial cooperation between both countries.
India’s growing demand for advanced weaponry has positioned it as a key defence market for the UK. This missile deal reflects Britain’s intent to play a larger role in supporting India’s modernisation efforts while maintaining regional stability.
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As the UK and India continue to build on their strategic ties, the $468 million missile deal stands as a strong symbol of trust and collaboration between the two nations. It not only strengthens India’s defence capabilities but also deepens the historic relationship between London and New Delhi.
