On the concluding day of his visit to the United Kingdom, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh co-chaired the UK-India Defence Industry CEOs Roundtable alongside his UK counterpart Grant Shapps at Trinity House in London. The event witnessed the participation of leading figures from the UK defence industry, Ministry of Defence (MoD) officials, and representatives from prominent companies including BAE Systems, Thales UK, and SAAB UK.
During the roundtable discussions, both ministers applauded the investment and technology collaborations, underscoring India’s skilled workforce, pro-Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) environment, and vast domestic market. Rajnath Singh, while highlighting India’s ambitious development goals under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, expressed confidence in achieving developed economy status by 2047.
Emphasizing the symbiotic relationship between India and the UK, the Defence Minister envisioned a strategic partnership focused on cooperation and innovation. Grant Shapps echoed this sentiment, stressing the strategic nature of the partnership beyond a simple buyer-seller relationship.
UK industry leaders presented plans for joint initiatives in aero-engines, electric propulsion, missiles, power-packs, and maritime systems. The Defence Minister commended the enthusiasm of UK CEOs for collaboration with Indian companies.
The visit encompassed a bilateral meeting on January 09, resulting in agreements on a cadet exchange program and defense collaboration in research and development between the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and the UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL).
Rajnath Singh paid tributes to Mahatma Gandhi at Tavistock Square, visited the Ambedkar House, and the Sri Swaminarayan temple at Neasden. Scheduled meetings with UK PM Rishi Sunak and Foreign Secretary David Cameron are expected to further strengthen diplomatic ties.