India-Belgium Relations: Defence JV and 24 MoUs
Why in the news
A high-level Belgian delegation visited New Delhi to deepen ties, with talks on defence autonomy, trade and the impact of the US shift on Ukraine policy. A defence joint venture was also announced.
Key facts
- Delegation: Princess Astrid and Deputy PM Maxime Prévot; Astrid met PM Narendra Modi.
- Defence talks: Prévot and Defence Minister Theo Francken voiced support for Ukraine and for India-Belgium defence links.
- MoU: a defence cooperation pact is to be signed by the end of 2025.
- Defence Attaché: Belgium will station one in India.
- Business: a 300-member delegation; 24 MoUs covering defence technology (supporting Make in India), food processing, health, engineering and education.
- Europe’s doubts about US policy on Ukraine fuel calls for independent European defence.
India’s Russia-Ukraine diplomacy
- Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri held consultations in Moscow.
- Groundwork under way for Modi-Putin talks; Putin may visit India in 2025.
- Modi was invited to Russia’s Victory Day event on 9 May.
Joint venture in defence
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Partners | Belgian firm (JCD) and Pune-based Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics (EPH) Pvt. Ltd. |
| Focus | Turrets for the Zorawar light tank (built by DRDO and L&T) |
| Why Zorawar | Meant to counter China’s threat in eastern Ladakh; now in advanced trials |
| Demand | Possibly up to 700 light tanks |
| Wider scope | Advanced combat vehicles, turret modernisation for armour, AI-driven battlefield systems |
About EPH
- 25 years in defence, known for simulators and missile launchers.
- Revenue about ₹300 crore; plant at Chakan, Pune; 35-40% of revenue from defence.
Significance
- Backs Make in India and lowers import dependence.
- Improves military readiness amid border tension.
- Positions India as a defence manufacturing hub using AI and electronics strengths.
Exam angle
- Zorawar light tank: DRDO with L&T.
- EPH is headquartered in Pune, plant at Chakan.
- Belgium’s Deputy PM: Maxime Prévot; Defence Minister: Theo Francken.