L3Harris Technologies has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Bharat Forge’s subsidiary Kalyani Strategic Systems Limited (KSSL), setting the stage for joint efforts to deliver advanced defence and security systems within India.
The agreement, which spans two years, will see both companies working closely to explore opportunities in command, control, communications, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) technologies.
Through this MoU, L3Harris gains a robust partner in KSSL to enhance its operational capacity within the Indian market.
The partnership aims to leverage L3Harris's extensive experience in tactical communications networks and its significant global presence, which includes more than one million deployed radios used by the US Department of Defense and allied forces worldwide.
L3Harris International vice president Dave Johnson said: “This MoU sets the stage for future partnerships and opportunities in India, where the combined strengths of L3Harris and KSSL can contribute to bolster national security for the country.
“We are excited to move forward and increase our delivery speed in advanced tactical radios and equipment to the Indian Armed Forces.”
The partnership, designed to focus on the Indian market, also aims to build supply chains for global commitments outside of India.
KSSL president and CEO Neelesh Tunger said: “This collaboration unlocks new strategic capabilities and will lead to harnessing new opportunities for quick delivery of sophisticated defence products to the Indian Armed Forces.
“Aligned with the evolving doctrines and emerging warfare paradigms, this collaboration between KSSL and L3Harris is aimed at serving future strategic requirements, including joint and integrated ISR capabilities.”
L3Harris has been operating in India for 21 years, with established facilities in New Delhi and Bengaluru.
The company's contributions to India's defence include advanced tactical radios, crewed airborne electro-optic/infrared systems.
The collaboration between L3Harris and KSSL also aligns with the US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation, which promotes the advancement of defence technologies and capabilities.
In the year 2016, India attained the status of a "Major Defence Partner" in relation to the US.
Subsequent to this designation, the two nations proceeded to execute a sequence of fundamental accords spanning from 2016 through 2023. These agreements encompassed areas such as military logistics, secure communications, and geospatial intelligence cooperation.
