India is setting up a new ordnance factory in Bihar with technology from the South African firm Somchem (a part of South Africa's Denel Group) to make advanced artillery shells. India had purchased shells for its 155mm Bofors howitzers from South Africa during the Kargil border conflict with Pakistan in 1999. South Africa is also in talks with India to supply a large number of howitzers to upgrade the Indian Army's artillery units. - Adam Geibel