India, Israel Ink Major Defence Deal To Share Tech, Co-Develop Weapons

India and Israel on Tuesday signed a major defence agreement aimed at boosting technological cooperation and promoting joint development and production of advanced weapon systems. The pact is seen as a significant

step in strengthening the already close strategic ties between the two nations.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed in Tel Aviv following a meeting of the India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on defence cooperation. According to Ministry of Defence, the MoU provides “a unified vision and policy direction” to further deepen defence collaboration.

Under the agreement, both countries will work together in several critical areas, including artificial intelligence, cyber security, defence research and innovation, and industrial cooperation. This is expected to enhance their capability to develop and manufacture key military equipment jointly.

India has been a major buyer of Israeli military technology, importing various missile systems, drones, and other weaponry over recent years. While these transactions have mostly remained low-profile, the current MoU formalises and broadens the framework for cooperation.

The defence ministry highlighted that the India-Israel defence partnership is built on longstanding trust and shared security interests. “The MoU will allow the sharing of advanced technology and support co-development and co-production efforts,” the ministry said in a statement.

The JWG meeting reviewed existing defence initiatives and noted the mutual benefits both nations have gained from cooperation. Officials discussed potential areas for future collaboration, particularly in technology, operational capabilities, and defence research. They also spoke about joint efforts to counter terrorism, emphasising a shared commitment to tackling global security threats.

The signing coincided with the three-day visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar to India. During his visit, Sa’ar and External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar held detailed talks on strengthening bilateral cooperation not only in defence but also in trade, infrastructure, and connectivity.

The MoU is expected to lay the groundwork for closer defence industry ties, facilitating the co-production of weapons and advanced systems. Observers say it also comes ahead of a likely visit by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to India in the coming months.

(With inputs from PTI)