India-UK 4,000 Crore Defence Deal: LMM Missiles for India, Also Used by Ukraine Against Russia

India-UK 4,000 Crore Defense Deal: India and the UK have signed a major defense deal. Britain signed an agreement worth US $468 million, i.e., about Rs 4155 crore, for the supply of UK-made Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM) to the Indian Army. This agreement took place at a time when British Prime Minister Keir Starmer had come to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Mumbai.

Used in Ukraine as well

These missiles are also being used in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine. The Ukrainian Armed Forces are using LMMs against Russian troops.

Securing jobs in the UK

According to a British government statement, the new contract for these missiles, manufactured by Thales in Northern Ireland, will secure approximately 700 jobs at a factory there. Britain has also supplied these missiles to Ukraine under a special agreement.

Features of the Lightweight Multirole Missile

The Lightweight Multirole Missile is an advanced air defense system. It is designed for air-to-surface, air-to-air, surface-to-air, and surface-to-surface engagements. It is manufactured by Thales Air Defence in Belfast. The missile can attack drones, armored vehicles, and various military platforms.

Fired from Anywhere

Weighing 13 kilograms, the missile can be launched from helicopters, naval ships, and light or heavy armored vehicles. Its speed is Mach 1.5, and it is laser beam guided. The LMM is available in solder-launched, tripod, and vehicle configurations.

Martlet Missile: Named after a Mythical Bird

This missile is also called the Martlet missile, which is named after a mythological bird that never makes a nest. It is specially designed for use in urban environments.

Enhancing India's Air Defense Capability

The Indian government stated that this deal will enhance the country's air defense capabilities and meet the current and future needs of the Ministry of Defense towards a self-reliant India. It will also strengthen long-standing cooperation between the two countries on complex weapons. Britain also said it has signed a new milestone with India on electric engines for naval ships. The next phase of the deal will begin at an initial cost of 250 million pounds.