India and Belgium are strengthening their defence ties, with discussions underway to establish a working group focused on bilateral cooperation. The initiative follows collaborations between Belgian and Indian firms to integrate advanced rocket systems into armoured vehicles and light tanks.
Belgian politician Theo Francken announced the proposal during a press conference, highlighting Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s suggestion to create a dedicated working group. Francken also acknowledged the contributions of Indian soldiers during World War I.
Supporting this effort, Belgian Foreign Minister Maxime Prevot confirmed that Belgium will appoint a senior officer as a defence attaché at its embassy in New Delhi. This move underscores Belgium’s commitment to enhancing military collaboration with India.
In a significant development, Belgium has invited the Indian Navy to participate in Belgian Navy Day, marking a new phase of engagement between the two navies. Additionally, over 300 representatives from more than 200 Belgian companies are set to visit India as part of an economic mission to explore business opportunities.
John Cockerill Defence (JCD) and Thales Belgium are among the key Belgian companies partnering with Indian firms to tap into India’s expanding defence sector. JCD, known for its expertise in turret manufacturing, has teamed up with Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics Pvt Ltd (EPHL) to produce turrets for the ‘Zorawar’ light tank. This tank, developed by India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), is designed for deployment in high-altitude and desert environments.
The Indian Army plans to acquire over 350 light tanks, with potential for further expansion. Under India’s ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiative, the joint venture between JCD and EPHL will have a 60:40 ownership structure, with JCD holding the majority stake to facilitate the transfer of turret technology to India.
For the first time, JCD will manufacture its turrets outside Europe, setting up production in India. The company, which currently exports to ten countries and operates an assembly plant in Saudi Arabia, aims to ensure that 50% of the turret components are locally sourced. JCD also plans to share its metallurgical expertise with Indian partners.
“John Cockerill is committed to helping India become a global manufacturing hub,” said JCD CEO Thierry Renaudin.
JCD has already delivered one turret for a Zorawar prototype built by L&T, which has successfully completed winter field trials. A second turret is scheduled for delivery ahead of summer trials. According to EPHL’s Joint Managing Director Ashley Rasquinha, this is part of an order for 59 turrets to be manufactured at L&T’s facility in Chakan, Pune.
Similarly, Thales Belgium has partnered with Armoured Vehicles Nigam Limited (AVNL) to equip Indian military vehicles with 70mm rocket systems. A key milestone in 2025 will be a joint demonstration, including a live firing exercise, to showcase the capabilities of both companies.
Thales Belgium has also contributed to India’s aviation sector by providing launchers and rockets for the Advanced Light Helicopter Weapon System Integrated (ALH-WSI), developed by Hindustan Aeronautics Limited. The company has been involved in this project for over two decades, supporting the Indian Army and Air Force.
These collaborations reflect growing defence ties between India and Belgium, as both nations seek to strengthen their strategic and industrial partnerships.
