Tata to co-produce US Javelin anti-tank missiles in India

New Delhi: Tata Advanced Systems Ltd has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with US-based Raytheon and Lockheed Martin, developers of the Javelin, to manufacture the anti-tank missile in India.

The announcement for co-production of the Javelin All Up Round (AUR) comes days after the signing of a $45.7 million deal between the Indian and US governments for the former to acquire around 100 units of the missile on a fast-track basis. India's total requirements for this type of missile is expected in the thousands, which can enable local manufacturing at scale.

"This initiative brings critical assembly expertise and knowledge transfer into India's defence industrial ecosystem, while strengthening self-reliance. Local assembly of the Javelin All Up Round will enhance operational readiness and ensure timely access to proven, combat-ready capability for the Indian Armed Forces," said Sukaran Singh, chief executive officer at Tata Advanced Systems.


The deal for around 100 Javelin missiles was signed last Friday under a government-to-government route, with an expectation that much larger orders will follow, provided it meets the indigenisation requirements and pricing.

Raytheon and Lockheed Martin said Tata has been selected as the prime partner for future in-country co-production efforts following an evaluation of multiple companies based on capability and expertise.

Both sides are currently exploring the establishment of a final assembly and integration facility for the Javelin and component production capabilities in India. The American side indicated that the production of sub-assembly kits at Lockheed Martin's Troy facility and guidance electronics units at Raytheon's Tucson facility will continue and they would be shipped to India for final assembly and integration.