Saab is forming a joint venture in India with Kalyani Strategic Systems Ltd. for India's SRSAM and VSHORAD air defense programs.

Under their agreement, the joint venture will handle the main part of production and delivery of short range surface-to-air missile systems and very short range air defense systems.

"The joint venture company will combine Saab's knowledge and experience as a developer and supplier of high-technology radar and missile systems, with the engineering excellence and manufacturing capabilities of the Kalyani Group," said Gorgen Johansson, head of Saab's Dynamics business area.

Technology transfer to India is a major part of the deal.

"I am glad to announce our contribution to Make in India [government program] through our agreement with KSSL and the Kalyani Group to establish a joint venture company in India for the air defense programs," Johansson said. "The JV is already under preparation within both companies, and will be ready to launch soon."

Saab is offering India a system that combines its Giraffe AMB 3-D radar and the BAMSE advanced ground-based air defense missile system for the SRSAM program and a system based on the RBS 70 NG missile system for India's man-portable VSHORAD missile program.