DECEMBER, 20259TOP STORIESJBM, SODECIA FORM JV TO SUPPLY HOT-STAMPED AUTO SYSTEMS IN INDIAJBM Group, a leader in automotive components, has entered into a joint venture with Sodecia Automotive based in Portugal to design, develop, and supply hot-stamped systems and assemblies to OEMs in India.Both companies forms an automotive JV in India to supply hot-stamped components, strengthening auto manufacturing in India as a leading automotive systems supplier.To do this, the collaboration plans an investment of around 150 crore to set up a new production facility at Chakan, Pune, that is expected to start operations in the second quarter of FY27.This facility will manufacture lightweight, high-strength, safety-critical structures for both internal combustion engine (ICE) and electric vehicles, fully enhancing the performance and safety of the vehicle.JBM Group has been growing its hot-stamping capabilities in several locations and has already established a die-manufacturing dedicated unit at Greater Noida to support its production facility.JBM Group Chairman S K Arya stated, "This collaboration will accelerate the deployment of high-strength, lightweight systems critical for modern mobility, and further strengthen our role as a trusted technology partner to OEMs globally".Rui Monteiro, the CEO of Sodecia, pointed out that this partnership will allow the company to leverage its global experience in one of the most vibrant automotive markets in the world, making it clear that this is a strategic initiative to expand their business in India.Hot stamping, or press hardening, consists of heating sheet-metal blanks to very high temperatures and then quickly cooling them down in dies, producing superior tensile strength while saving weight. Because of stricter emission laws and a movement toward lightweight platforms - particularly for electric vehicles - hot stamping technology is increasing in passenger vehicles. IMRRecently, India and Oman reaffirmed their commitment on strengthening defence industrial cooperation by holding the 13th meeting of the Joint Committee for Defence Industrial Cooperation held at New Delhi.India and Oman strengthen India Oman defence ties and explore co-development military platforms, enhancing defence cooperation Oman through the JMCC meeting India Oman, promoting defence technology collaboration and a long-term strategic partnership.India was represented at this meeting by the Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, and Oman by the Secretary General for the Ministry of Defence (MoD) Mohammed Bin Naseer Bin Ali Al Zaabi.According to a statement from the MoD, the Joint Committee addressed the strong bilateral relationship in the area of defence cooperation, and discussed ways of further enhancing the relationship through multiple areas of defence engagement.Additionally, both countries discussed regional and international security issues, specifically as they pertain to the Indian Ocean region.The Ministry of Defense stated, "The discussions focused on creating long-term frameworks that support co-development of advanced platforms, boost indigenous manufacturing, and improve strategic resilience. Both sides agreed that closer defence industrial collaboration is essential for regional stability, mutual security interests, and sustainable defence modernisation. The meeting reaffirmed the strong strategic partnership between India and Oman and underlined the commitment of both countries to maintain regular high-level dialogue".Prior to this meeting the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, and Mohammed Bin Naseer Bin Ali Al Zaabi also held a meeting to advance defence industrial collaboration between Oman and India, including the status of Military Logistic Complex projects; Ship Building; Defence Maintenance, Repair and Overhaul (MRO) capabilities; Collaborative Training Programs; and Potential Opportunities for Defence Exports.In a post on X, the Integrated Defence Staff Headquarters mentioned, "General Anil Chauhan, Chief of Defence Staff CDS held an extensive interaction with HE Dr Mohammed Bin Nasser Bin Ali Al-Zaabi, Secretary General, MoD, Sultanate of Oman. The discussions reaffirmed the commitment to deepen Defence Cooperation through progress on the Military Logistic Complex, enhanced collaboration in shipbuilding, maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO), strengthened training cooperation and avenues for defence exports."It added, "Both sides also exchanged views on bolstering maritime security, improving border management and facilitating smoother operational turnaround of IN platforms along with efficient IAF and IN flight clearances to support growing operational engagements". IMRINDIA & OMAN STRENGTHEN DEFENCE TIES, PLAN CO-DEVELOPED PLATFORMS
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