New Delhi, Feb 18 (UNI) Mahindra Defence Systems (MDS) today said it is in advanced talks with Whitehead Alenia Sistemi Subacquei (WASS) for underwater defence Jonit Venture.

MDS' proposed JV with WASS will utilise the industrial and operational capabilities of Mahindra&Mahindra, enabling MDS to enhance its product range, said a statement.

The Finmeccanica Group has had a long association with the Indian Armed Forces in supplying lightweight torpedoes, submarine fired decoys, and also been pad of the highly successful Transfer of Technology programmes with the Indian industry in the past.

''MDS is in an advanced level of discussion with WASS for a strategic alliance. MDS's proposed underwater defence JV with WASS will jointly address the Indian requirement for underwater defence, bringing to the country's Armed Forces affordable world class underwater defence systems,'' said Chief Executive of Mahindra Defence Systems Brigadier Khutub Hai.

MDS is the country's leading provider of high mobility and light bullet proof vehicles to the armed forces, paramilitary and police forces and a division of the six billion dollar Mahindra Group.

WASS is the maritime underwater systems subsidiary of the 12 billion dollar Finmeccanica Group of Italy.

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