Sig Sauer, Inc. has entered into a joint venture with Nibe Defence and Aerospace Limited to advance small arms and ammunition manufacturing operations in India.
Sig Sauer reported that the new partnership will support India’s “Make in India“ initiative, underscoring both entities’ commitment to the region and bolstering Sig Sauer’s role as the primary provider for India’s defense needs.
Nibe Defence and Aerospace Limited is a new integrated defense component manufacturing plant in Chakan, Pune, India.
“Sig Sauer is meeting the increased international demand for our products by solidifying key partnerships across the globe,“ said Ron Cohen, president of Sig Sauer. “This important new alliance in India serves to meet that demand in one of the most significant regions for growth in the coming decades. The joint venture with Nibe Defence gives SIG an expanded presence, greater customer engagement and new collaboration opportunities to meet India’s growing needs.”
Officials from Nibe Defence joined representatives from Sig Sauer and the Chief of Defense Staff of the Indian Armed Forces on November 6, 2024, for the official signing of a Memorandum of Understanding in Pune, India.
As part of the government’s “Make in India“ initiative to accelerate the domestic manufacturing industry, the collaboration between Nibe and Sig Sauer is expected to strengthen India’s defense capabilities while reinforcing its commitment to self-reliant defense manufacturing.
The Government of India’s Ministry of Defence first awarded Sig Sauer a contract for the SIG716 in 2019 for 72,400 rifles. The successful fielding and soldier acceptance led to a follow-on award for an additional 73,000 rifles.
“Sig Sauer is excited to partner with Nibe Defence, a proven leader in India’s defense sector, as the primary provider for India’s defense needs,“ concluded Cohen.
Image courtesy Nibe Defence and Aerospace Limited
