Amidst escalating tensions with Pakistan, the Indian government has convened leading defence manufacturers for critical discussions scheduled in Delhi next week. This urgent meeting illustrates a proactive stance by the Indian administration, aiming to enhance the nation’s strategic production capabilities in the face of recent border hostilities. Babasaheb Neelkanth Kalyani, Chairman and Managing Director of Bharat Forge Limited, confirmed this significant gathering, stating, “We have been called to Delhi next week, our team is going. Cannot say more,” in an interview with media outlets. His remarks have further ignited speculation regarding the government’s immediate defence priorities.
The backdrop for this meeting includes recent incidents such as reported drone and missile assaults from Pakistan on Jammu, prompting India’s retaliatory operation, dubbed “Operation Sindoor.” This mission, executed in early May 2025, reportedly neutralized nine terror camps situated in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Such military actions underscore the heightened urgency for India to fortify its defence capabilities as the geopolitical landscape becomes increasingly volatile.
The upcoming discussions are expected to cover a wide spectrum of crucial topics, ranging from the potential award of new defence contracts to directives aimed at accelerating existing production timelines. Notably, Bharat Forge is involved in a pivotal ₹6,900 crore agreement with the Ministry of Defence for the supply of 307 Advanced Towed Artillery Gun Systems (ATAGS), of which Bharat Forge is contractually obliged to deliver 184 units valued at ₹4,140 crore. These initiatives align seamlessly with the government’s overarching policy frameworks, namely the ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ (Self-reliant India) and ‘Make in India’ programs, which are focused on nurturing a robust domestic defence industrial base.
Bharat Forge itself has established a formidable presence in the global manufacturing landscape, holding the title of the world’s second-largest forging manufacturer, right after Germany’s ThyssenKrupp. The company has strategically expanded its footprint in defence through its subsidiary, Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd. (KSSL). KSSL’s portfolio includes production of advanced artillery systems, armoured vehicles, air defence solutions, and various types of ammunition. A significant achievement has been the indigenous development of the ATAGS, a 155mm/52 calibre artillery gun that has garnered international acclaim for its unprecedented firing range of 48 kilometres.
Under Mr. Kalyani’s leadership, Bharat Forge has also formed critical alliances with eminent international defence firms such as Rafael Advanced Defence Systems and Elbit Systems, aiming to incorporate cutting-edge technologies into India’s military arsenal. Furthermore, the company plays a key role in the Indian Air Force’s Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) programme and is advancing its capabilities in developing precision-guided munitions, jet engines, and sophisticated naval systems, including marine gas turbine engines for the Indian Navy. This multifaceted approach is indicative of an ambitious agenda toward strengthening India’s indigenous defence manufacturing ecosystem amidst ongoing regional conflicts.
As India grapples with increased threats, particularly from its neighbour to the northwest, the alignment of public policy with the initiatives of prominent defence manufacturers could prove crucial. With a defense budget allocation of ₹6.81 lakh crore for FY2025-26 reinforcing this commitment, similar dialogues and collaborations may not only revitalise existing contracts but could also trigger new opportunities that bolster India’s defence readiness in an increasingly challenging environment.
Source: Noah Wire Services
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