In an interaction at Defexpo 2012, Inderjit Sial, Managing Director Saab India Technologies Pvt Ltd, stated that with Saab’s exports rising steadily, the company is exploring options worldwide. However, as India was clearly emerging as a market with immense potential, Saab intended to not only penetrate the vibrant and versatile Indian market but also to leverage India’s strong technology base and manufacturing capabilities in such a way so as to create new opportunities to meet the demands of the growing world market. To this end, Saab will be exploring opportunities for partnership with private and public defence industry in India as the way forward for business here. Saab had already entered into a contract with the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for manufacture of the airborne electronic warfare equipment for the advanced light helicopter programme for the Indian Army as well as the Indian Air Force.

At Defexpo 2012, Saab showcased cutting-edge technologies and solutions for the Indian armed forces, paramilitary forces, civil aviation and homeland security apparatus. As per Inderjit Sial, given the importance of the Indian market and the opportunities the country has to offer, Saab regarded the Defexpo as an event crucial to its business interests.

At the exhibition this year, Saab’s primary focus was on land and naval systems, with emphasis on the RBS 70 NG missile system. Saab also displayed its underwater AUV systems and the C4I systems, along with camouflage and a variety of other parts of the product portfolio. Saab has responded to an RFP for electronic defence systems for the Indian Army’s T-90 upgrade programme.