Interview | Country head, MBDA Group, India, Loic Piedevache

We are looking to set up a missile systems plant in India capable of significant levels of production, not only in terms of quantity but also regarding technology of the highest level

Loic Piedevache

What is the progress on the JV with L&T? Will MBDA be investing in separate infrastructure for it or will it operate out of L&T’s existing facilities?

Through L&T MBDA Missile Systems Ltd we are looking to set up a missile systems plant in India capable of significant levels of production, not only in terms of quantity but also regarding technology of the highest level. The JV has already identified several concrete projects on which our teams are working actively. This includes, among others, ATGM5 and Medium Range Anti-Ship Missile.

 

When does MBDA expect the ATGM programme to take-off?

This is a question for the customer.

 

MBDA has a rich portfolio of aerial missiles. Which of these have been showcased to the Indian Air Force (IAF)? What all has been of interest to the IAF?

MBDA has been delivering battle-winning capabilities to the IAF and collaborating with Indian industry for over 50 years. The IAF is receiving the ramjet powered and network-enabled Meteor beyond visual range air-to-air missile from MBDA. This next generation missile is widely recognised as a game changer for air combat. Other examples of technological edge equipping the IAF from MBDA include Mistral ATAM and the MICA and ASRAAM dogfighting missiles.




What are MBDA’s current programmes with the IAF? Has there been any conversation with the IAF on the Light Combat Aircraft Tejas?

Throughout the year we have regular interactions with the IAF about our products and their potential use by the air force.

 

The government has said that ‘Make in India’ will be the preferred route of procurement. While MBDA has offered joint development and technology transfer on some of the missiles, will the company offer ToT on missiles like Meteor or Storm Shadow also?

MBDA’s long-term strategy has always been one of partnership with India, and our track record speaks for itself. We have transferred technology continuously to India, with notable successes, and we have opened our supply chain to the Indian industry, which this day is building key components for many of our products. Last year we founded L&T MBDA Missile Systems Ltd, a Joint Venture with Larsen and Toubro, and we are looking to set up a missile systems plant in India capable of significant levels of production, not only in terms of quantity but also regarding technology of the highest level. ToT does depend on several factors including our respective governments’ clearances and approvals.

 

What is the update on the current programmes with the Indian Navy and what are the future possibilities?

Examples of programmes where MBDA is offering high-performance equipment with industrial participation for the Indian Navy include MM40 Exocet Block 3 for the Indian Navy’s MRAShM requirement, Sea Ceptor and VL MICA for the Indian Navy’s SRSAM requirement, and Marte/Marte ER and Sea Venom for naval helicopters.

 

Is there an update on the VSHORAD programme?

This programme is ongoing. MBDA’s offer is fully compliant with India’s requirements and is the best in class due to the missile’s very high performance in all conditions, against all threat sets, with the highest kill probability – as proven in Indian trials.

 

Does MBDA have any programme with the DRDO or in any discussion with it for some future programme?

MBDA has regular discussions with the DRDO on a number of programmes.

 

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