New Delhi | October 9, 2025 | SKY LINK TIMES
In a significant development marking a new phase in India-UK Defence Deal cooperation, the United Kingdom has announced a ₹4,154 crore defence deal with India. Under this agreement, the Indian Army will receive Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMMs), designed and manufactured in Belfast.
The announcement coincided with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s first official visit to India, during which he held wide-ranging bilateral talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai. The deal reflects both nations’ growing emphasis on defence collaboration and strategic security in the Indo-Pacific region.
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A Milestone in India-UK Defence Deal Collaboration
The LMM agreement underscores the deepening trust and technological cooperation between New Delhi and London. The missiles, produced by Thales UK in Belfast, are known for their precision targeting and lightweight design, making them suitable for multiple platforms including helicopters, drones, and ground vehicles.
With this deal, the UK aims to strengthen defence export ties, while India looks to enhance its self-reliance in military capability under the ‘Make in India – Defence’ initiative.
PM Modi: “India and UK Are Natural Partners”
Addressing a joint press conference, Prime Minister Modi praised the evolving partnership:
> “With this Agreement, the import cost between the two countries will come down, new employment opportunities will be generated for the youth, trade will increase, and this will benefit our industries and consumers,” said PM Modi.
He added that the collaboration, along with the recently signed Comprehensive Economic and Trade Agreement (CETA), will further reduce trade barriers and accelerate economic growth.
> “India and UK are natural partners. Mutual trust in values like democracy, freedom, and rule of law lies at the foundation of our relations. In the current era of global instability, this growing partnership between India and UK has been an important base for global stability and economic progress,” he said.
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Strategic and Economic Implications
The new India-UK Defence Deal for missile not only strengthens India’s military readiness but also cements the India–UK strategic partnership as one of the most important global alliances. Experts believe the cooperation will open doors for joint research, co-development of advanced defence technologies, and increased trade in high-value sectors.
This partnership comes at a time when both nations are seeking to diversify defence supply chains and reinforce security collaboration amid evolving global challenges.
Conclusion
The ₹4,154 crore missile deal signifies more than just an arms agreement — it represents a shared vision for global security, economic growth, and technological innovation. As PM Starmer’s visit concludes, both nations stand poised to expand their defence and economic cooperation in the years ahead.
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