Thales launches production of 70mm laser-guided missiles in India

French defense company Thales will be partnering with India’s state-owned Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to set up local manufacturing of the former’s Forges de Zeebrugge (FZ) 275 70 mm/2.75-inch laser-guided rockets (LGRs) in India, Report informs referring to the Asian Military Review.

The joint announcement noted that anticipated memorandum of understanding (MoU) will provide an opportunity for BDL to offer locally produced FZ275 LGRs for the Indian armed forces’ growing fleet of indigenously developed Advanced Light Helicopters (ALHs) and Light Combat Helicopters (LCHs).

Thales also said that BDL is also expected to become a part of the FZ275 LGR global supply chain, providing components to existing and future customers around the world.

The FZ275 is a semi-active laser (SAL) folding fin aerial rocket (FFAR) that measures 1.75 m long and has a loaded weight of around 12.5 kg and range of between 1.5 and 6 km.

The FZ275 LGR’s SAL seeker is compatible with NATO standard (STANAG 3733) laser pulse repetition frequency codes, although other laser codes can also be integrated for non-NATO customers.

The standard FZ275 LGR is equipped with the FZ71 high explosive general purpose warhead, although other types of warheads – such as the FZ319 high explosive armor piercing and the FZ181 flash/illuminating – are also available. The rocket can be used to engage light-armored vehicles and other soft-skinned vehicles and infrastructure.