After Airbus, Mahindra Defence Naval Systems to make naval equipment with UK firm Ultra Electronics

MUMBAI: On the heels of tying up with Airbus Helicopters, Mahindra Defence Naval Systems today said it has joined hands with Britain's Ultra Electronics to manufacture and supply underwater warfare equipment for the Indian Navy and radios for the Army.

"The two companies have come together to build and supply new generation advanced systems like the torpedo defence system, integrated anti-submarine warfare defence suite and mine counter measure equipment.

"Their offerings will also include anti-submarine warfare vessels, submarine safety equipment and sono-buoys, among others," Mahindra Defence said in a statement here.

The Mahindra Group firm did not disclose financial details of the agreement. The company also did not say whether these equipment will be manufactured in India.

The statement said the companies will address the requirement of specialised radios for the Army's tactical communication systems.

Mahindra Defence Chairman S P Shukla said, "The Navy has been importing a major part of underwater war-fighting equipment. We expect to provide cutting edge technology to the Navy in this field in partnership with Ultra Electronics.

"We also expect to address the requirement of specialised radios and other defence electronics for all the three wings of the armed forces."

Late last week, the company tied up with Airbus Helicopters to manufacture defence choppers in the country.

The joint venture between the European major and Mahindra Defence aims to become the "first private domestic helicopter manufacturer under the 'Make in India' initiative". It will act as prime contractor for military helicopter tenders.

Ultra Electronics Chief Executive Rakesh Sharma said the tie-up builds upon his company's existing collaboration in providing modern, software defined tactical radios to the Army.

Ultra Electronics is a defence, security, transport and energy company that manages a portfolio of specialist capabilities generating innovative solutions.