Sagem forming Indian JV for AASM Hammer bomb kits

PARIS, April 20 (UPI) -- Sagem of France is creating a joint venture company in India for the manufacture of its AASM Hammer bomb guidance and glide kit.

A memorandum of understanding for the JV was signed with OIS Advanced Technology, or OIS-AT.

"We are pleased to collaborate with OIS-AT with our combat proven, high-precision AASM Hammer guidance and range extension kit for aerial munitions for the Indian air force," said Sagem CEO Martin Sion. "With OIS-AT we have a partner with a core focus and appreciation of advanced technologies and innovation to advance our joint interests for the Indian air force."

The Hammer was originally designed and manufactured by Sagem for French air force and navy Rafale aircraft. A customized version will now be made by the joint venture for the Indian air force.

"We are pleased that Sagem is collaborating with us with their combat proven, world leading, high-precision munitions guidance and range extension kit. With its impressive list of advanced features, Sagem's AASM Hammer is the foundation for our joint venture to specifically cater to the requirements of the Indian air force under the government's Make-In-India program," said Sanjay Bhandari, chairman and managing director of OIS Advanced Technology.

OIS-AT is a broad based technology company serving the aerospace, defense and homeland security sectors. It is India's largest private-sector radar manufacturer with a portfolio of advanced ground-based and airborne radar systems.