Pune: Indian Army’s HQ Base Workshop Group Signs MoU with MCCIA to Boost Defence Indigenisation and Innovation
Pune, 17th September 2025: Headquarters Base Workshop Group (HQ BWG) of the Indian Army and the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce, Industries and Agriculture (MCCIA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen military–civil collaboration, with a focus on indigenisation, research and development (R&D), and innovation.
MCCIA, one of Maharashtra’s leading chambers of commerce, has been actively promoting the Pune region as an investment destination and an emerging hub for exports, industry, and trade.
The MoU seeks to create a dedicated segment for Defence Land Systems by providing inputs and coordination between the Indian Army and MCCIA. It aims to identify, exchange, and undertake joint R&D projects that address the operational needs of HQ BWG, with products developed either being adopted directly or scaled up further through MCCIA’s support. The partnership will also facilitate expert advice, consultation, and technical guidance in line with HQ BWG’s objectives.
The collaboration focuses on:
Indigenisation and upgrades of Armoured Vehicles by developing local manufacturers.
Integration of emerging technologies such as Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, and Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) into Indian Army Land Systems.
Creation of an incubation cluster at the Army Base Workshop, Pune, serving as a collaborative platform for the Army, industry, academia, and think tanks to conceptualize and execute projects.
The MoU also envisions promoting Pune as a Defence Land Systems technology development and manufacturing hub, while evolving into a centre for defence R&D, innovation, and exports. Additionally, the agreement emphasizes developing industry-ready skilled manpower to support the Base Workshop and enhance employment opportunities in the defence sector.
The long-term goal is to establish Pune as a globally recognized Defence Technology hub, build a replicable model for other regions, and create a common platform for start-ups, exhibitions, technology showcases, and international cooperation.
