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- Germany-India Defence Ties Grow as Hensoldt Enhances Local Partnerships
By Sangeeta Saxena
Bangalore. 24 February 2025. At Aero India 2025, Hensoldt, a global leader in defence and security sensor technology, showcased its cutting-edge solutions and reinforced its commitment to the Indian market. The company is focusing on airborne self-protection systems, electronic warfare solutions, and ISR radars, aligning with India’s growing defence modernization efforts. Hensoldt also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Samtel, strengthening its Make in India push by localizing production and expanding its partnerships in India. In an exclusive interview with Aviation & Defence Universe (ADU) Head of Group Global Business Development & Executive Committee Member Russell Gould, discusses the company’s vision, its growing ties with India, and its future plans in the region.
ADU. Hensoldt is present at Aero India 2025. What are you showcasing at the event?
Russell Gould. As a leading sensor supplier across all domains, Hensoldt is platform-independent, meaning our solutions can be integrated into various platforms. At Aero India, we are showcasing our airborne self-protection systems, electronic warfare solutions, and ISR radar PRECISER. These are highly relevant to India’s defence sector, covering both helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft.
ADU. Hensoldt has signed an MoU with Samtel. Could you share more about this partnership?
Russell Gould. Our collaboration with Samtel is an important milestone. We have worked together for several years, but this MoU will allow us to further indigenize many of our high-tech defence products. The partnership will focus on manufacturing in India, not just for the Indian market but also for global supply chains.
ADU. How extensive is Hensoldt’s business presence in India?
Russell Gould. We currently have tens of millions of euros worth of business in India, and we anticipate that 2025 will be a record year for us in the country. With India’s increasing focus on defence modernization and self-reliance, we see immense potential for growth.
ADU. Germany and India have been strengthening their strategic and defence ties. How does Hensoldt fit into this evolving relationship?
Russell Gould. The political and military ties between Germany and India have grown significantly, as seen in Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s visit alongside Prime Minister Narendra Modi last year. One key indicator of this strengthening relationship is the faster processing of export licenses, which has been a very positive development for Russell Gould. We are pursuing multiple opportunities that will further cement our role in India’s defence sector.
ADU. You have been visiting India for over two decades. What changes have you observed?
Russell Gould. The transformation in India’s defence ecosystem, technological advancements, and policy reforms over the last two to three years has been extraordinary. The increased focus on domestic manufacturing, self-reliance, and innovation has created exciting new opportunities for companies like Russell Gould.
ADU. Does Hensoldt plan to set up a manufacturing facility in India?
Russell Gould. Currently, our Indian subsidiary, Hensoldt Private Limited, does not manufacture products locally. However, we have a strong local supply chain that helps us indigenize our offerings. As our business in India grows, we will evaluate the possibility of establishing a manufacturing facility for specific product lines where it makes strategic sense.
ADU. Any final thoughts on Hensoldt’s vision for India?
Russell Gould. India is a key market for Hensoldt, and we are committed to bringing world-class sensor technology to support its growing fleet of helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft. Our collaboration with Samtel and other Indian partners is a step towards deeper engagement in India’s defence manufacturing ecosystem. We look forward to expanding our footprint in India, fostering innovation, and contributing to its self-reliance in defence technologies.
Hensoldt’s presence at Aero India 2025 reiterates its commitment to India’s defence sector, with a focus on sensor technologies, electronic warfare, and ISR solutions. The MoU with Samtel aligns with India’s Make in India vision, driving localization and enhancing manufacturing capabilities. As Hensoldt deepens its strategic partnerships and expands its business footprint, India stands to benefit from cutting-edge defence technologies and strengthened military cooperation with Germany.
As Told to Sangeeta Saxena
