German shipbuilder thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) has signed a teaming agreement with VEM Technologies of India to jointly produce heavyweight torpedoes in the country.
The move marks the next phase of cooperation between the two companies following the signing of a memorandum of understanding in 2025.
In the initial stage, the agreement will support the production of heavyweight torpedoes for the existing submarine fleet of the Indian Navy.
Atlas Elektronik, a TKMS subsidiary, will support the transfer of the required technologies and software licenses to enable torpedo production at VEM’s manufacturing facilities in India.
Around 500 torpedoes will be produced annually under the partnership, according to Indian media.
“With this Teaming Agreement, we are completing the next important milestone in our strategic partnership with VEM and underlining our commitment to the ‘Make-in-India’ initiative,” Executive Vice President of Atlas Elektronik Michael Ozegowski said.
“The transfer of our torpedo technology enables VEM to make a decisive contribution to strengthening the Indian Navy and to India’s technological independence.”
Deeper Collaboration
The partnership could later expand to deeper collaboration in future torpedo programs.
Over the medium term, the project may also lead to the creation of a joint venture between VEM and TKMS to supply the Indian market with heavyweight torpedoes and pursue export opportunities.
The deals expand the German firm’s role in India’s naval modernization drive.
Last year, the company signed an agreement with Mumbai-based CFF Fluid Control Limited to jointly develop and manufacture advanced anti-submarine warfare systems for surface ships and other defense applications.
Separately, a joint bid by TKMS and state-owned Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited was selected to build six advanced conventional submarines for the Indian Navy.
