India and Israel Sign Pact to Deepen Defence and Technology Cooperation
India and Israel have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen bilateral defence collaboration and technology sharing. The agreement, signed in Tel Aviv after the 17th meeting of the India–Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on defence cooperation, marks a significant step in advancing joint research, co-production, and co-development of advanced military systems.
Strengthening Strategic Partnership
The MoU was signed by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Major General (Res) Amir Baram, Director General of Israel’s Ministry of Defence. Both officials co-chaired the JWG meeting, which serves as the principal platform for policy-level discussions on defence collaboration. The Ministry of Defence stated that the agreement provides a unified policy framework to deepen the already robust India–Israel defence partnership, grounded in mutual trust and shared security priorities.
Focus Areas of Cooperation
The agreement identifies multiple areas for enhanced collaboration, including joint research and production of advanced weapon systems, training, and industrial cooperation. Special emphasis has been placed on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, unmanned systems, and electronic warfare. The two sides also agreed to expand cooperation in defence innovation and start-up ecosystems, enabling greater integration between research institutions and private industries in both nations.
Review of Ongoing Initiatives and Future Plans
During the JWG discussions, officials reviewed existing joint projects and recognised mutual benefits derived from shared technological expertise. The meeting also examined new opportunities for collaborative research and capability development to address evolving security challenges. Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to regional stability and global peace, with an emphasis on joint counter-terrorism efforts and knowledge exchange in strategic defence domains.
Exam Oriented Facts
- The 17th India–Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting was held in Tel Aviv in November 2025.
- An MoU was signed between Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Israel’s Maj Gen (Res) Amir Baram.
- The agreement focuses on technology sharing, co-development, and co-production of defence systems.
- Key collaboration areas include AI, cybersecurity, and advanced weapons technology.
Expanding Defence Ties and Global Outlook
India and Israel have maintained close defence relations for over three decades, with cooperation extending across intelligence sharing, drone systems, radar technologies, and missile defence. The latest agreement reinforces their partnership in cutting-edge technological innovation and defence modernisation. Both nations view this pact as a pathway to greater strategic autonomy and a shared contribution to global peace and security.