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India's EPHL and Belgium's JCD have formed a joint venture (JV) in India for the Light Tank Program.

National | Dated: 06 Mar 2025

In March 2025, John Cockerill Defence (JCD), a leading manufacturer of tank turrets based in Seraing (Belgium), and Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics Private Limited (EPHL) from Pune (Maharashtra), announced a joint venture (JV) in India.

🎯 Key Highlights:

  • - This collaboration is an important step in strengthening defense ties between India and Belgium while enhancing India's self-reliant military capabilities.

💡 Other Important Facts:

  • (i) The JV will mainly focus on the Indian Army's (IA) Light Tank program, specifically the Zorawar tank. Zorawar is a light tank developed jointly by the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Larsen & Toubro (L&T), and is currently undergoing advanced trials.
  • (ii) The JV will operate on a 60:40 ratio, with JCD holding the majority share. This ensures that advanced turret technology is transferred to India, supporting the country’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India) defense initiative.
  • (iii) Additionally, Thales Belgium, based in Brussels (Belgium), has teamed up with India’s state-owned Armoured Vehicle Nigam Ltd (AVNL) in Avadi (Chennai). Together, they will integrate a 70mm rocket system onto military vehicles for the Indian armed forces. In 2025, a key milestone will be a joint demonstration, including live firing exercises, as per Belgian embassy officials.

📚 Test Your Knowledge:

Which country's company, JCD, has partnered with India's EPHL in the recently launched Light Tank Program?

Correct Answer: Belgium

🚀 Quick Recap: