Defence majors Nexter Systems of France and Larsen & Toubro Limited (L&T) of India signed an agreement announcing the formation of Nexter Systems led consortium for 155mm towed gun artillery programme for the Indian Army.

Under the proposal, Nexter will field Trajan, 155mm/52-calibre weapon system. Trajan offers enhanced firepower through quicker response, longer range and improved accuracy. It covers larger areas with fewer guns and favours initiative, manoeuvring and quick reaction time while minimising risks. Nexter has provided 145 towed guns systems to French Army and other armed forces.

“Joining forces between Nexter and Larsen & Toubro will bring through a fruitful cooperation, the development of the innovative 155mm towed gun that will better answer Indian Army needs,” said Philippe Burtin, Chairman and CEO, Nexter Systems.

Larsen & Toubro, in association with Nexter Systems, will manufacture critical subsystems for Trajan which will integrate and provide required support for the gun system to the Indian Army. L&T brings to the consortium its track record of development of various weapon systems for Defence Research & Development Organisation and Indian armed forces across land, naval and air defence applications.

“L&T and Nexter consortium will endeavour to provide a winning solution to the Indian Army,” said M.V. Kotwal, President, Heavy Engineering and Member of the Board, L&T. “Besides providing the most advanced artillery towed gun system to the Indian Army this partnership will also open up new avenues in the Indian and global defence markets for both the partners.”