Strong British presence at DEFEXPO 2010

NEW DELHI - Britain is set to showcase its strong presence at DEFEXPO 2010 next week, with more than 20 companies participating. Some will be exhibiting their prowess for the first time at the Feb 15-18 DEFEXPO.

“This commitment to the exhibition by UK companies, UK Trade & Investment Defence and Security Organisation (UKTI DSO) staff and a British Army team reflects the continued strength of the important strategic relationship between the UK and India,” a UKTI statement said Friday.

Richard Paniguian, head of the UKTI DSO is leading the British delegation, accompanied by Alan Malpas, its director for the Middle East and India.

“India is a very important defence and security market for the UK and DEFEXPO 2010 gives UK companies a chance to showcase a range of capabilities, some that will interest the Indian armed forces,” Paniguian said.

“The demonstration area, with the theme of security and maritime and border protection reflects the interest of many countries in the region. I am also keen to see more industrial cooperation between UK and Indian companies in the defence and security sectors,” he added.

The demonstration area, manned by soldiers with operational experience from the UKTI DSO Export Support Team, will hold demonstrations and advise prospective buyers/visitors on the equipment on display.

The equipment, which relates to security and border/maritime protection, is either currently in service with the British Army or due to enter service in the near future.

Over the last five years, Britain has on average secured annual orders of around 5 billion pounds (Rs.363 billion) in the global defence market, making it the world’s second largest defence equipment supplier after the US.

Britain’s defence industry continues to be at the forefront of technological innovation and its international success demonstrates its ability to develop and supply highly capable equipment at competitive prices.

The Defence Manufacturers Association (DMA) has co-ordinated the attendance of British industry at DEFEXPO 2010. Some of these companies have already been successful in supplying equipment to a number of armed forces around the world. Some of the equipment is being used in the current conflict in Afghanistan.