BAE Systems recently announced that Tony Walton has been appointed as managing director for India, based in New Delhi. In this role, Tony will lead BAE Systems’ in-country operations, focusing on supporting delivered hardware, developing new opportunities and fostering greater collaboration with the Indian defence sector.

Tony brings over three decades of international defence industry and military experience. He joined BAE Systems in 2022 and most recently led Guided Weapons and Autonomy campaigns in Australia. Prior to joining BAE Systems, Tony spent eight years with Thales Australia, primarily as the bid director across the Vehicles and Tactical Systems (VTS) business line. His portfolio included Australian Munitions, Explosive Ordnance Services, Lithgow Arms, and Protected Vehicles.

Earlier in his career, Tony held the role of director of innovation at General Dynamics European Land Systems, based in Switzerland. In this position, he led product development and technology initiatives across multiple European markets, including Austria, Germany, Spain, and Switzerland.

Tony began his career as an officer in the Royal Australian Navy, undertaking a range of operational sea and shore postings. He is a graduate of the Australian Defence Force Academy and holds a Bachelor of Engineering (Aerospace) from the Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology.

Managing director Asia, BAE Systems Natasha Pheiffer said, “India is important to BAE Systems as we wish to partner with Indian defence companies to meet the evolving requirements of the Indian armed forces. Our global technology offering spans air, land, sea, space and cyber and with Tony’s leadership, engineering and military experience we will continue to grow our business in India.”

Tony Walton said, “I’m honoured to lead BAE Systems in India at a time of significant opportunity. We remain committed to supporting the modernisation objectives of the Indian armed forces and contributing to the government’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision through industry partnerships that enhance local manufacturing capabilities and provide opportunities for export.”