BAE selects Mahindras for 'Make in India' howitzers

Britain-based global defence major BAE Systems on Wednesday said it has selected the Mahindra group as its partner for the proposed assembly, integration and testing unit for the ultra-lightweight howitzers.

India and the US are in discussions on the proposed foreign military sale of 145 M777 A2 LW155 Howtizers for the Indian Army. The Defence Acquisition Council had cleared the proposal, worth some Rs.2,900 crore, on May 13 last year.

Looking forward to finalise the details of the facility in the coming weeks with Mahindra, BAE said the proposal demonstrates the company's commitment to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Make in India' campaign.

"BAE Systems is pleased to partner with Mahindra on our offer to develop an AIT facility in India. The facility is a fundamental part of the M777 production line," said BAE Systems vice president for Weapons Systems Joe Senftle in a statement.

BAE Systems said the selection of Mahindra as the business partner followed detailed scrutiny of the group's ability to meet the requirements and to provide the best value for the programme, with the vision of Mahindra evolving to becoming a strategic partner in India.

The $16.9 billion Mahindra Group's defence products include armoured vehicles, underwater warfare equipment, simulators, radars and surveillance equipment catering to all the three wings of the Indian armed forces.

BAE Systems offers some of the best advanced technology defence, aerospace and security solutions, employing 83,400 people in 40 nations.