India and the United Kingdom have launched the India-UK Connectivity & Innovation Centre—a major strategic initiative aimed at advancing secure, resilient, and innovative communication technologies. This joint venture, announced on October 10, 2025, represents a new chapter in bilateral ties and responds to the technological needs of the coming decade.
Key Areas of Collaboration
With a combined initial investment of £24 million over four years, the Centre is set to:
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Accelerate research and commercialisation in advanced telecommunications.
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Enable industry partners to innovate, test, and scale products, supporting the entire journey from lab to market adoption.
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Drive advancements in three focus domains:
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Telecom AI: Enhance network efficiency and customer-facing services through advanced artificial intelligence tools.
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Non-terrestrial networks (NTNs): Develop satellite and airborne connectivity to reach rural and remote regions.
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Telecom cybersecurity: Strengthen network security and foster open, interoperable standards.
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Economic, Security, and Policy Impact
As India and the UK move together towards a 6G future, the Centre will underpin broader economic and security objectives, fostering new academic, industrial, and commercial partnerships. The partnership also aligns with the UK-India Technology Security Initiative, emphasizes digital inclusion, supports joint test beds, strengthens the R&D ecosystem, and sets the pace for future-ready global technical standards.
Institutional and Industry Commitment
The initiative is led through collaboration between UK Research and Innovation (UKRI), India’s Department of Telecommunications (DoT), and partners across established research centres. It leverages joint strengths in academia and industry, linking cutting-edge university research with real-world field trials and rapid market deployment. The India-UK Research and Innovation Corridor, and the Vision 2035 agreed to by both Prime Ministers, serve as guiding frameworks.
Conclusion
The India-UK Connectivity & Innovation Centre cements a unique model of international partnership—promoting secure digital growth, creating new economic opportunities, and supporting the shared vision of both countries to lead in future telecom innovation, including in 6G, AI, non-terrestrial networks, and cybersecurity.
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Source: PIB
