In a landmark move to strengthen India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem, Airbornics Defence & Space Pvt. Ltd. (ADSL), the defense division of the JCBL Group, has signed a pioneering Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Slovakia. The agreement, formalized during President Droupadi Murmu’s state visit to Slovakia, marks the first-ever defence collaboration between the two nations and focuses on co-developing advanced technologies for light tanks, Future Ready Combat Vehicles (FRCVs), and Future Infantry Combat Vehicles (FICVs).
The strategic partnership aims to leverage Slovakia’s expertise in defence technologies alongside India’s growing industrial capabilities under the Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) initiative. ADSL will collaborate with Slovakian counterparts to design and manufacture cutting-edge systems, including turrets, Remote-Controlled Weapon Systems (RCWS), and Active Protection Systems, tailored for modern combat platforms. This collaboration is expected to enhance India’s indigenous defence production while fostering technology transfer and potential export opportunities.
During the visit, The President said that India is one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, and Slovakia, with its strong industrial base and strategic location in Europe, presents great opportunities for deeper trade and investment ties. As a key member of the European Union and a hub for automotive, defence, and high-tech industries, Slovakia stands to benefit from India’s vast consumer market, skilled workforce, and thriving start-up ecosystem. She invited Slovak companies to join our ‘Make in India’ initiative.
The MoU aligns with India’s Make-in-India campaign, aiming to position the country as a global hub for defence manufacturing. Industry experts view this as a significant advancement for India’s armored vehicle programs, as it has the potential to produce combat platforms that are suitable for challenging terrains.
Slovakia, recognized for its cutting-edge defense solutions in armored vehicles and artillery systems, contributes significant expertise. The partnership is expected to pave the way for joint ventures, co-production, and future defence exports, strengthening strategic ties between New Delhi and Bratislava.
This historic agreement underscores India’s growing stature in the global defence arena and sets the stage for further collaborations with European nations. As ADSL and its Slovakian partners gear up to develop next-generation combat vehicles, the MoU promises to usher in a new era of innovation and self-reliance for India’s armed forces.
