Adani Defence and Aerospace has forged a groundbreaking partnership with French multinational Thales Group to produce 70mm rockets for India’s Rudra and Prachand helicopters. This collaboration, announced on Friday, represents a significant stride towards the Make in India initiative and Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) goals, positioning India at the forefront of defence innovation and manufacturing.

Key Highlights:

• Strategic Alliance: Adani Defence has teamed up with Thales, a global leader in aerospace and defence, to manufacture advanced 70mm rockets. These cutting-edge rockets will be deployed in the HAL Rudra and Prachand helicopters, enhancing the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) combat capabilities and operational readiness.
• Elevating Defence Capabilities: The Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) Prachand, renowned for its unique ability to operate at altitudes of 5,000 meters, will significantly benefit from the new rockets. This capability is crucial for high-altitude missions and rapid response scenarios, strengthening India’s defence posture.
• Versatile Helicopters: The Rudra, an advanced variant of the ALH Dhruv, excels in reconnaissance, troop transport, anti-tank warfare, and close air support. The integration of these 70mm rockets will further enhance its mission versatility and combat effectiveness.

Historical Context:

• Learnings from Kargil War: The Kargil War of 1999 underscored the need for indigenous, lightweight helicopters capable of performing in diverse and challenging terrains. This partnership addresses that need, ensuring that India can respond swiftly and effectively in any combat scenario.
• Current Fleet: The Indian Army operates 180 Dhruvs, including 60 Rudras. The Indian Air Force has 75, while the Navy possesses 23, showcasing the widespread reliance on these versatile helicopters.

Impact on Make in India Initiative:

• Boosting Indigenous Production: The Adani-Thales partnership exemplifies the Make in India initiative, driving domestic defence production and reducing reliance on foreign imports. This collaboration will create high-tech jobs, foster technological innovation, and boost the local economy.
• Strategic Autonomy: By manufacturing 70mm rockets domestically, India enhances its strategic autonomy, ensuring a reliable supply of critical defence equipment and strengthening national security.

Official Statements:

Adani Defence and Aerospace hailed the partnership as a landmark achievement in India’s pursuit of self-reliance in defence technology. Thales Group reaffirmed its commitment to supporting India’s defence modernization, emphasizing the mutual benefits of this strategic collaboration.

This visionary tie-up between Adani Defence and Thales is a testament to India’s growing prowess in defence manufacturing. It not only aligns with the Make in India vision but also sets a new standard for international collaborations, reinforcing India’s position as a global leader in defence innovation and self-reliance.