Prime Highlights
- India and UK launch first joint industry working group dedicated to autonomous and uncrewed defence systems.
- Forum aims to convert bilateral roadmaps into joint development, manufacturing and technology partnerships between both nations.
Key Facts
- Dr Helen Almey, Sameer Joshi co-chair India-UK autonomous systems working group.
- UKIBC-SIDM framework drives India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap push.
Background
India and the UK have launched a new industry-led working group focused on autonomous and uncrewed defence systems, marking a fresh step in bilateral technology cooperation.
The India-UK Autonomous Platforms and Uncrewed Systems Working Group was unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow in England. The forum brings together companies, innovators and researchers from both nations to explore collaboration in autonomous and uncrewed technologies, including underwater systems.
The initiative sits within the UK India Business Council-Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers Joint Working Group framework and supports the India-UK Defence Industrial Roadmap, a key part of the wider Vision 2035 partnership.
SIDM Director General K Ramesh described the group as providing the operational framework needed to convert government roadmaps into tangible industrial outcomes.
He said the forum would help both nations build a strong ecosystem for mutual business and noted it would serve as a pilot for similar capability-focused groups across other defence sectors.
The Working Group will identify opportunities in joint development, manufacturing partnerships, supply-chain integration and technology innovation, helping organisations from both countries build long-term ties and speed up the development of future capabilities.
UKIBC Group CEO Dr Kishore Jayaraman said the platform would let industry, academia and innovators identify real opportunities and turn ambition into outcomes. He added that new partnerships and capabilities are expected to emerge through closer cooperation between the two countries.
Dr Helen Almey of ADS Group will co-chair the group on the UK side, while Sameer Joshi of NewSpace Research and Technologies will represent India.
The forum, jointly supported by SIDM and UKIBC, will report to the wider Joint Working Group and is set to be the first of several capability-focused groups advancing the Defence Industrial Roadmap.