French-German defence group KNDS will equip India’s newly acquired Light Combat Helicopter (LCH) fleet with 126 newly manufactured 20mm THL20 turrets, according to a company statement issued in Versailles on 17 September.
The deal cements KNDS’s position as India’s leading supplier of aerial gunnery and ammunition. The company already holds official status as supplier of 20mm and 30mm ammunition to both the Indian Army and Indian Air Force.
Proven Platform, New Application
The THL20 turret has already qualified on the IAR 330 helicopter and integrated onto the Black Hawk. Engineers built it around the 20M621 gun, which fires standard NATO 20x102mm ammunition. It derives from the heavier THL30, currently fitted to Tiger attack helicopters.
KNDS designed the turret to be accurate, lightweight and compact, with low recoil. It integrates directly with helicopter sighting systems, delivering precise targeting.
Long-Standing Partnership
The agreement extends a relationship between KNDS and the Indian Air Force dating back to 2006. That partnership already covers 136 THL20 turrets fitted to the Air Force’s Advanced Light Helicopters.
The contract also reflects India’s ‘Make in India’ defence localisation drive. KNDS recently signed manufacturing agreements with Indian partner SMPP to produce KATANA 155mm precision-guided ammunition and MV 100 loitering munitions domestically.
KNDS additionally supplies ammunition for the 30mm 30M791 gun mounted on the Air Force’s Rafale jets, alongside its wider turret and ammunition portfolio.
Together, these contracts position KNDS as a principal supplier across India’s air and land defence gunnery requirements, deepening its foothold in one of the world’s largest defence markets.
Learn more on KNDS’ website













