BAE Systems plans to produce Tridon Mk 2 in India

The truck-mounted Tridon Mk 2 anti-aircraft system was introduced during the Eurosatory 2024 defence exhibition in Paris. (BAE Systems)

BAE Systems is exploring local production of its Tridon Mk 2 air-defence system in India as it seeks to support the Indian Army's future air-defence requirements through an indigenous manufacturing approach.

The new managing director of BAE Systems India, Tony Walton, told Janes on 21 July that the company is evaluating a partnership with Indian industry to manufacture the Tridon Mk 2 system locally.

The potential programme comes as India pursues new very short-range air-defence system (V-SHORADS) capabilities and seeks to strengthen its defences against aerial threats, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).

Tridon Mk 2 is a Swedish-made mobile anti-aircraft artillery system produced by BAE Systems Bofors. It features a newly developed version of the Bofors 40 mm gun. Any local production of Tridon Mk 2, however, would likely depend on India selecting the system for procurement.

“We are confident of Indian companies' capabilities and their ability to absorb technology, in support of Indian Army's requirement,” a BAE Systems spokesperson told Janes on 24 July.

However, the spokesperson did not disclose whether any Indian companies have been shortlisted or whether formal discussions have begun with specific firms for the local production of Tridon Mk 2. The spokesperson also did not identify any specific Indian procurement programmes that BAE Systems is pursuing with Tridon Mk 2.

“We are open to all options and will meet the Indian Army's requirements in collaboration with Indian companies,” the spokesperson said. “The end objective being the guns will be supplied to the Indian Army through an Indian partner/company.”