KANPUR — In a major move to enhance the quality of footwear for Defence services, Troop Comforts Limited (TCL) has officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with global sportswear leader Adidas India Marketing Pvt. Ltd. (AIMPL). The MoU was signed on 2nd Jan 2026 by Dr. Anil Ranga, CGM/OEFC on behalf of TCL and Sh. Vijay Chauhan, GM/AIMPL and Sh. Vivek Tyagi, Dir(Legal)/AIMPL on behalf of Adidas India Marketing Pvt. Ltd. in the presence of Vice Admiral Rajat Kapoor, Controller of Logistics, Indian Navy and Sh. Sunil Date, CMD/TCL.
This collaboration aims to revolutionize the development and production of high-performance Physical Training (PT) shoes for the Indian Navy and the broader defense sector.
New Frontier in Manufacturing
A New Frontier in Manufacturing The Ordnance Equipment Factory Kanpur (OEFC), a specialized unit of TCL, has long been a trusted manufacturer of specialized boots, including High Ankle Rubber-PU Sole boots and combat boots. However, as the factory looks to expand its customer base, it has identified the development of improved PT shoes as a critical “new dimension” for its business.
The Indian Navy has indicated a substantial requirement for these improved shoes. Recognizing the technical expertise required for modern athletic footwear, TCL identified Adidas India as the ideal partner to ensure these products meet international standards.
Bridging Expertise for National Defense Adidas India was selected for this collaboration based on its proven track record in developing the current version of the Indian Navy’s PT shoes. By combining TCL’s indigenous production capabilities with the technical innovation of Adidas, the partnership aims to deliver footwear that offers superior performance and comfort for troops.
Under the terms of the MoU, both organizations will work in close coordination to develop PT shoe samples for physical and technical evaluation. This collaborative effort is designed to provide the highest quality footwear within a strictly defined time frame.
Wide-Ranging Impact
Wide-Ranging Impact While the partnership was initially sparked by requirements from the Indian Navy, the impact is expected to reach across all branches of the Indian Armed Forces. TCL notes that the demand for high-quality PT shoes extends to:
- The Indian Army and Air Force, who require durable training gear for their officers and troops.
- The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) and various State Police Forces.
- Civilian Markets, including individuals seeking high-performance shoes for gym and fitness activities.
This collaboration brings a new dimension to our manufacturing capabilities . By partnering with a global leader like Adidas, we are ensuring that our brave service members receive the highest quality equipment while simultaneously expanding TCL’s footprint in the competitive footwear market.
Rajeev Sharma, Director/Operations, TCL
This strategic alliance marks a significant step forward in TCL’s mission to provide world-class equipment to India’s defenders while leveraging the strengths of global industry leaders.