India stands today at a remarkable inflection point in its history – one defined not only by its economic and geopolitical ascent, but also by its transformation into a global hub of technological innovation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the field of defence manufacturing, where India is transitioning from a legacy importer to a forward-leaning exporter. But as the country rapidly builds its innovation ecosystem, one truth is clear: India’s rise is being accelerated – and enriched – by strategic partnerships with like-minded nations. Among the most vital of these is the growing collaboration between India and Israel.
This partnership isn’t transactional. It is built on mutual respect, shared democratic values, and a common understanding of the security challenges in a complex world. As an Israeli company, we at Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our Indian partners – not just to do business, but to build together, innovate together, and achieve lasting impact together.
Nowhere is this collaboration more visible than in PLR Systems, which our parent company, SK Group, proudly established in 2016 as the first private-sector company in India to establish a small arms manufacturing facility under the Indian government’s flagship Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative. The joint venture between India’s Adani Group and SK Group is a testament to what happens when two countries commit to not just exchanging ideas but transferring capabilities.
At Malanpur in Madhya Pradesh, PLR Systems is producing world-class small arms that are now used by the Indian defence forces and will soon be exported to international markets. Among the weapons produced are the X95, MASADA, NEGEV, JERICHO and ACE – modern, battle-proven weapons built to perform in the most demanding environments. These arms, previously manufactured abroad, are now being designed, engineered, and assembled in India – by Indian professionals, for Indian needs, and increasingly, for the global markets.
India stands today at a remarkable inflection point in its history – one defined not only by its economic and geopolitical ascent, but also by its transformation into a global hub of technological innovation. Nowhere is this more evident than in the field of defence manufacturing, where India is transitioning from a legacy importer to a forward-leaning exporter
This success is not just about hardware. It’s about technology transfer, capacity-building, and trust. IWI doesn’t just bring products to India. We bring intellectual property, training, and technical expertise that empower our partners in India to manage the full lifecycle of production. We do so with full confidence in the capabilities, commitment, and talent of Indian engineers and manufacturers.
This partnership model is not the norm in the global defence industry. Too often, countries are offered turnkey solutions that leave them dependent on outside suppliers. That’s why IWI’s philosophy is anchored in long-term investment, not short-term sales. The work we have done at PLR Systems demonstrates what happened when India’s policy framework and private sector ambitions intersected with partners who were ready to share technology, not just export products.
At IWI, we view India not as a market, but as a partner in progress. We see Malanpur not as a production site, but as a symbol of what is possible when vision meets action. And we see PLR Systems not as a one-off success, but as the beginning of a broader, deeper relationship. We are ready to transfer more technology, co-develop new systems, and invest further in India’s defence innovation landscape
India’s defence ecosystem is undergoing a quiet revolution. With clear-eyed reforms, increased foreign direct investment allowances, and robust public-private frameworks, the Indian government has laid the groundwork for a generational leap in indigenous defence manufacturing. Programmes like iDEX, DAP 2020, and the Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP) all point in the same direction: building a sovereign defence capability with global reach. This isn’t just about national pride – it’s about strategic autonomy, economic opportunity, and international leadership.
At IWI, we view India not as a market, but as a partner in progress. We see Malanpur not as a production site, but as a symbol of what is possible when vision meets action. And we see PLR Systems not as a one-off success, but as the beginning of a broader, deeper relationship. We are ready to transfer more technology, co-develop new systems, and invest further in India’s defence innovation landscape. We are here for the long haul – because we believe in India’s mission and are committed to supporting its evolving priorities. As part of this, we are also looking to share advanced anti-drone technologies, which are becoming increasingly critical in today’s operational environment.
And that mission is one we deeply admire. India is not only pursuing self-reliance in defence; it is seeking to become a net exporter of defence capabilities. That’s not just good for India – it’s good for global stability. An India that builds, innovates, and shares its capabilities with the world is a force for security and balance.
This isn’t just speculation. India’s record already speaks volumes. From its ambitious combat aircraft programmes to AI-powered battlefield systems, from missile defence to cybersecurity, India is showing that its innovation story is not confined to Silicon Valley-style startups. It’s now an R&D engine for next-generation defence technology. And its partners – those willing to commit, to share, to build – will benefit alongside it.
This partnership also has a moral dimension. India and Israel are both democracies that value pluralism, sovereignty, and the rule of law. We face threats that are asymmetric, complex, and evolving. And we both know that innovation in defence is not just about power – it’s about resilience. The systems we build must not only protect borders, but also protect values.
As we celebrate India’s Independence Day, it’s fitting to celebrate this moment of industrial and technological emergence. India’s independence is a testament to its legacy of sacrifice and strength. This spirit lives on today in its vibrant democracy and its determined pursuit of self-reliance across every critical domain, including defence manufacturing
As we celebrate India’s Independence Day, it is fitting to celebrate this moment of industrial and technological emergence. India’s independence is a testament to its legacy of sacrifice and strength. This spirit lives on today in its vibrant democracy and its determined pursuit of self-reliance across every critical domain, including defence manufacturing.
This transformation is not an abstract policy goal. It’s visible in factories like the one in Malanpur. It’s felt in every Indian-made rifle issued to a soldier. It’s reflected in every export contract secured by an Indian firm. And it’s made possible through a coalition of determined partners – foreign and domestic – who believe in the power of India’s future.
At IWI, we are proud to be one of India’s trusted partners on this journey. We will continue to support the country’s defence ecosystem with everything we have: our technology, our people, and our long-term investments. India has demonstrated to the world what a democratic nation with a bold vision, deep talent, and unwavering resolve can accomplish. We are honoured to help bring that vision to life. As India celebrates its Independence Day, we extend our heartfelt wishes to the Government of India, the Indian people, and our partners across the country. May this day serve as a powerful reminder of how far India has come – and the bright future still ahead! Happy Independence Day.
Jai Hind!
The writer is the CEO of Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) and a Director of PLR, part of the SK Group and a global leader in small arms manufacturing, renowned for pioneering the iconic Uzi submachine gun and continuously redefining modern combat and civilian weaponry. Trusted by the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) and top military, law enforcement and Special Forces in more than 60 countries, IWI’s combat-proven systems reflect evolving operational needs and emerging threats
