UK Signs $468M Deal to Supply Missiles to India

• UK-India £350M deal for lightweight missiles signed.
• Secures 700 UK jobs; aids broader defense ties.
• Advances £250M naval engine partnership phase.

In order to facilitate India, the UK has signed a £350 million ($468 million) deal for the supply of lightweight multirole missiles made by Thales in Northern Ireland. This move is hailed as the next step in the growing defense relationships between the two countries, the Indian army with the installation of these adaptable weapons, helping a broader partnership in complicated armaments which is still under negotiation.

Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, disclosed the deal during his visit to Mumbai, where he met Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The leaders exchanged views on the economic possibilities arising from their recent trade agreement, highlighting the increased commercial and strategic partnership. Apart from the missile supplies, UK and India also progressively coordinated shared initiatives in electric powered naval propulsion systems, signing the next stage of a £250 million project for ship engines.

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This deal will not only enhance the defense capabilities of India but also ensure the safety of around 700 jobs at the Thales facility that is currently producing similar missiles for Ukraine amid the conflict. Starmer's administration has made the defense industry a priority to revive the economy, led to pledges for NATO spending, and pursued major export successes including the recent £10.5 billion ($13.5 billion) frigate deal with Norway.

The collaboration signifies a strategic point of view common to the UK and India, directing the focus on technology transfers, joint production, and innovation in defense manufacturing. While negotiations on broader weapons cooperation are moving forward, this milestone communicates the potential for mutual benefits in security and economic development.