In a significant boost to India’s Make in India initiative, the country’s largest unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) manufacturer, Raphe mPhibr, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with German defense giant Hensoldt. The agreement, formalized at Aero India 2025, aims to co-develop next-generation landing aid radar using Multiple-Input Multiple-Output (MIMO) technology. The partnership marks a key milestone in Indo-German defense cooperation, reinforcing Germany’s commitment to India’s growing aerospace sector.
Make in India: Driving Domestic Innovation in Defence
Launched to promote local manufacturing, Make in India seeks to position India as a global production hub. The policy encourages both domestic and international companies to manufacture within the country, offering incentives to attract investment in key sectors, including defense.
The initiative focuses on creating an investment-friendly environment, developing cutting-edge infrastructure, and opening strategic industries to foreign collaboration. The Indo-German partnership aligns with these objectives, enabling knowledge transfer, local production, and long-term technological advancements.
Hensoldt’s Role in Indo-German Defence Cooperation
Germany-based Hensoldt specializes in defense and security technology, developing networked sensors, defense electronics, and optronics. The German government owns a 25% stake in the company, positioning Hensoldt as a key partner in Berlin’s defense strategy.
With Germany’s increasing focus on the Indo-Pacific region, Hensoldt’s collaboration with Indian firms is expected to enhance bilateral defense ties. Oliver Dörre, CEO of Hensoldt, emphasized India’s strategic importance, stating during a recent visit with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz that India ranks among the company’s top five growth markets worldwide.
Raphe mPhibr and Hensoldt to Develop Next-Gen Radar for UAVs and Aircraft
Under the agreement, Raphe mPhibr will spearhead research and development (R&D) efforts to integrate MIMO technology into unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and manned aircraft. MIMO, an advanced system designed to improve data transmission and radar efficiency, is expected to significantly enhance aviation safety and operational capabilities.
Vivek Mishra, CEO of Raphe mPhibr, highlighted the synergy between the two firms, stating that Raphe’s expertise in design and manufacturing, combined with Hensoldt’s proficiency in sensor technology, will enable them to develop a globally competitive MIMO radar solution.
Building on this collaboration, the two companies signed a second MoU to localize production of Hensoldt’s advanced sensor payloads in India. The agreement aims to establish a co-production facility, strengthening domestic defense manufacturing while catering to global demand.
Russell Gould, Global Business Head of Hensoldt Group, praised Raphe’s production capabilities, describing them as meeting global industry standards. He emphasized that Raphe’s agility and innovative approach align with Hensoldt’s vision for scalable, high-tech solutions. Ndleeb Shadman,
Managing Director of Hensoldt India, underscored the strategic importance of the agreement, stating that the partnership is built on technology and trust. He noted that India’s market potential, coupled with Raphe’s expertise in design and execution, makes this collaboration a significant contribution to global defense infrastructure.
Hensoldt and Samtel Avionics Sign MoU for Co-Production in India
Hensoldt’s expansion in India didn’t stop with Raphe mPhibr. At Aero India 2025, the German company also signed an MoU with Samtel Avionics (SA) to explore setting up a co-production facility in India.
Under this agreement, Hensoldt and Samtel will work together to manufacture critical defense technologies, including:
• LCR 100 – A lightweight flight data recorder
• Cavi Sight – An advanced visual landing aid system
• Cavi Connect – A secure airborne communication solution
These indigenized solutions are tailored to meet Indian defense and aviation needs. Designed for dual-use applications, they cater to both civilian and military sectors, reinforcing India’s push for self-reliance in high-tech defense manufacturing.
Strengthening India’s Defence Manufacturing Ecosystem
The Indo-German collaboration at Aero India 2025 signals a broader shift in India’s defense sector, moving towards cutting-edge technology partnerships and domestic production of critical defense systems. With Hensoldt’s expertise and India’s robust manufacturing ecosystem, these agreements mark a significant step towards enhancing India’s role as a global defense technology hub.
