European defence firm John Cockerill and Indian company Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics Ltd (EPHL) have established a joint venture to manufacture turrets for the Indian Army’s Zorawar light tank programme.
The partnership, announced on Tuesday, aims to not only supply turrets to the Indian Army but also explore export opportunities.
The Zorawar tank is being developed to enhance the Army’s combat capabilities, particularly in high-altitude regions along the border with China.
India plans to deploy over 350 light tanks, primarily in mountainous areas, with the possibility of increasing the number further.
This collaboration will manufacture, assemble, and commission the turrets, which function as the rotating armored housing for a tank’s gun.
This joint venture marks the first time John Cockerill will produce turrets outside of Europe.
The company will contribute its expertise in advanced weapon systems, while EPHL will provide its extensive local manufacturing capabilities.
Statements From Key Executives
Thierry Renaudin, CEO of John Cockerill Defense, stated, “John Cockerill is a partner to India in making the country a manufacturing hub for the world.”
“Our joint venture with Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics Pvt Ltd highlights our unwavering commitment to supporting India’s defence modernisation and self-reliance goals,” he further noted.
Renaudin emphasized that the collaboration will equip India with advanced, tailor-made defence solutions.
Vivek Bhide, Regional President, India, at John Cockerill, asserted, “The defence sector is critical to the security of the nation. Therefore, it is important to encourage and develop India’s defence manufacturing capabilities.”
He emphasized the JV’s commitment to delivering cutting-edge defence solutions tailored for India’s armed forces in complex and demanding combat scenarios.
“Importantly, it also answers the ‘Make in India’ call in a sector where India is working to embellish its global credentials,” Bhide remarked.
Commitment To ‘Make In India’
Ingrid Rasquinha, Joint Managing Director of Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (India) Pvt Ltd, affirmed the company’s strong dedication to advancing India’s defence modernisation efforts.
“This JV strengthens our long-standing commitment to ‘Make in India’ and ensures that world-class defence solutions manufactured domestically for the Indian armed forces,” she said.
Ingrid Rasquinha further noted, “By leveraging John Cockerill’s advanced technology and our local industrial expertise and capabilities in all core technologies, we are committed to driving innovation, localisation, and world-class manufacturing for the Indian armed forces.”
The initial phase of the project will see the delivery of 59 turrets for the Zorawar light tank.
Neither John Cockerill nor Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (India) Pvt Ltd disclosed details about their respective investments in the joint venture.
Ashley Rasquinha, Joint Managing Director at EPHL, emphasized that the collaboration goes beyond a mere business agreement.
“Through this JV, we will likely strengthen India’s defence manufacturing credentials on the global stage,” Rasquinha asserted.
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