India, Israel sign major defense deal to boost military cooperation
What's the story
India and Israel have signed a major defense agreement to enhance technological cooperation and joint development of advanced weapon systems. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Tel Aviv after the meeting of the India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on defense cooperation. The pact is aimed at further strengthening the already close strategic ties between the two nations.
Agreement details
MoU outlines cooperation in key areas
The MoU outlines cooperation in key areas such as artificial intelligence, cyber security, defense research and innovation, and industrial cooperation. It aims to boost India's capability to co-develop and co-produce key military equipment with Israel. The Indian Ministry of Defence emphasized that the pact is based on "deep mutual trust and shared security interests" between both countries.
Cooperation review
JWG meeting reviewed ongoing defense cooperation initiatives
A statement by India's Ministry of Defence said, "The JWG reviewed the ongoing defense cooperation initiatives and agreed that both the nations have benefited from each other's strengths. The two sides discussed the potential areas for future collaboration in the field of technology as well as enhancing operational capabilities." The talks also focused on joint efforts to combat terrorism, underscoring a shared commitment to global security threats.
Diplomatic visit
Israeli foreign minister's visit to India
The signing of the MoU coincides with a three-day visit by Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar to India. During his visit, Sa'ar met National Security Adviser Ajit Doval and External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar to discuss strengthening bilateral cooperation in defense, trade, infrastructure, and connectivity. In a statement, the MEA said the ministers also reviewed the ongoing cooperation in domains including political, security, agriculture, trade, investment, people-to-people ties, as well as critical and emerging technologies, semiconductors, cyber security and AI.
Partnership history
India-Israel defense partnership has deepened over the years
The India-Israel defense partnership has deepened over the years, with significant milestones such as Israel supplying laser-guided bombs during the Kargil conflict in 1999. In 2021, India accounted for nearly 37% of Israel's total arms exports. Several Indian companies have entered joint ventures with Israeli firms to produce arms in India, further strengthening bilateral ties in defense and security.