Kalyani Strategic Systems (KSSL), a subsidiary of Bharat Forge based in Maharashtra, India, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with US company AM General to supply advanced artillery cannons. This marks the first time an Indian defence manufacturer will supply weaponry to the US, strengthening bilateral defence ties. The deal highlights India’s growing defence manufacturing capabilities and supports the country’s goal of expanding defence exports.
Kalyani Strategic Systems (KSSL), a wholly owned subsidiary of Bharat Forge based in Maharashtra, India, has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with AM General, a leading US-based manufacturer of military vehicles. The agreement aims to supply advanced artillery cannons, marking the first instance of an Indian defence company exporting weaponry to the United States.
The LOI was signed at the International Defence Exhibition & Conference (IDEX 2025) in Abu Dhabi. Bharat Forge, a major Indian engineering and defence firm, described the development as a “historic first” for the Indian defence sector.
Strengthening India-US Defence Ties
Baba Kalyani, Chairman & Managing Director of Bharat Forge, emphasized the significance of the deal, stating, “We at KSSL are proud to be the first Indian company to supply cannons to the US. This agreement underscores our capabilities and reinforces our mission to be a leading provider of artillery solutions worldwide. It also highlights the trust and confidence global defence leaders like AM General have in our capabilities.”
As part of the collaboration, KSSL and AM General will jointly develop next-generation artillery solutions, including mounted, towed, and ultra-light gun systems in 105mm and 155mm calibres.
John Chadbourne, Executive Vice President of AM General, highlighted the strategic importance of the agreement, saying, “With KSSL’s proven artillery capabilities and our shared commitment to innovation, we see immense potential in bringing advanced artillery solutions to the US defence forces.”
India’s Growing Defence Exports
India has been actively increasing its defence exports, with shipments reaching a record $2.5 billion in the financial year 2023-24. The government has set a target of achieving $6 billion in defence exports by 2029.
The country currently exports arms to over 85 nations, including Italy, the Maldives, Russia, Sri Lanka, the UAE, the Philippines, Saudi Arabia, Poland, Egypt, Israel, Spain, and Chile. Despite this progress, India remains one of the world’s largest arms importers.
A Milestone for Indian Defence Manufacturing
The deal between KSSL and AM General represents a major step toward positioning India as a key player in the global defence industry. As the US looks to India for artillery solutions, it signifies growing confidence in Indian defence manufacturing and its ability to meet international standards.
With this agreement, India is not only strengthening its strategic defence ties with the US but also reinforcing its role as a credible supplier in the global arms market.
