SOURCE: AFI
In a landmark move for India’s defense manufacturing ecosystem, Belgium-based John Cockerill Defense, the world’s top turret-making company, has signed a joint venture with Indian firm Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics (India) Pvt Ltd to produce turrets for light tanks. This marks the first time the company will establish a manufacturing facility outside Belgium, with the new plant set to be located in Chakan, Pune. The 60:40 joint venture has been chosen by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T) to supply turrets for India’s Project Zorawar light tank program.
The collaboration is poised to bolster India’s indigenous defense capabilities, aligning with the “Make in India” initiative. The initial focus will be on manufacturing turrets for the 59 light tanks under Project Zorawar, designed for high-altitude operations. However, the joint venture’s ambitions extend far beyond this scope. Thierry Renaudin, Chief Executive Officer of John Cockerill Defense, emphasized the broader potential during a statement in the national capital: “The joint venture that we have is not limited to just the 59 light tanks. Our reading is that the overall demand will be much higher than 350. Moreover, as the joint venture stabilizes, we will look at other programs of the Indian Army—like the Future Infantry Combat Vehicle (FICV) and the futuristic main battle tank called the Future Ready Combat Vehicle (FRCV).”
This strategic partnership reflects a long-term vision to cater to India’s growing demand for advanced armored systems. John Cockerill Defense brings its globally renowned expertise in turret design and production, while Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics contributes its local manufacturing prowess and understanding of the Indian market. Ingrid Rasquinha, Joint Managing Director of Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (India) Pvt Ltd, revealed that the first India-made turret is slated to roll out in 2027, marking a significant milestone in the collaboration.
The facility in Chakan, Pune, is expected to serve as a hub for turret production, potentially positioning India as a key player in the global defense supply chain. The joint venture’s plans to expand into programs like the FICV and FRCV signal its intent to support the Indian Army’s modernization efforts across multiple platforms. These programs aim to deliver next-generation combat vehicles tailored to future warfare requirements, further enhancing India’s defense preparedness.
This development comes at a time when India is intensifying efforts to reduce reliance on imports and foster indigenous defense innovation. The partnership between John Cockerill Defense and Electro Pneumatics & Hydraulics is a testament to the growing confidence of global defense giants in India’s industrial capabilities. As the joint venture takes shape, it promises to deliver cutting-edge technology while creating opportunities for local employment and skill development in the defense sector.
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