India–Israel Defence Deal Boosts Innovation
India and Israel sign a new defence MoU to co-develop advanced technologies in AI, cyber systems, and defence R&D. A major step toward Atmanirbharta and defence innovation under Make in India.
India–Israel Defence Cooperation on Advanced Defence Technology
India and Israel have signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Tel Aviv to jointly develop and produce advanced defence technologies. This collaboration aims to strengthen India’s defence capabilities, promote self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat, and enhance regional security through innovation.
What is Advanced Defence Technology?
Advanced defence technology refers to next-generation innovations that enhance military capability, deterrence, and operational superiority through the integration of cutting-edge systems. These include Artificial Intelligence (AI), cyber systems, robotics, electronic warfare, quantum computing, and space-based surveillance.
Beyond weapon platforms, advanced technologies also encompass C4ISR—Command, Control, Communications, Computers, Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance—enabling real-time data integration and precision targeting.
According to the Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO), such technologies are the foundation of India’s goal for Atmanirbharta in key sectors like unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), missile defence, and electronic warfare systems.
Why Is It the Need of the Hour for India?
1. Strategic Environment and Emerging Threats
India faces complex security challenges from both Pakistan and China.
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Pakistan continues to sponsor cross-border terrorism, while China’s assertive actions along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) demand advanced surveillance and response capabilities.
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The 2020 Galwan Valley clash underscored the urgent need for technological parity in drones, precision-guided munitions, and battlefield intelligence.
2. Technological Lag and Import Dependence
India remains one of the world’s largest arms importers, accounting for 11% of global arms imports (SIPRI, 2024). This dependence constrains strategic autonomy and makes India vulnerable to supply chain disruptions.
By investing in indigenous advanced technologies, India aims to reduce dependency, build local expertise, and boost defence exports.
3. Economic and Industrial Imperatives
The Economic Survey 2023–24 highlights that dual-use technologies—applicable to both defence and civilian sectors—can become key drivers of innovation, exports, and job creation.
Initiatives such as Make in India, Innovation for Defence Excellence (iDEX), and Defence Corridors promote collaboration between startups, academia, and industry.
Developing advanced defence technology will help India achieve its $25 billion defence manufacturing target by 2025, while simultaneously strengthening the innovation ecosystem.
How Are India and Israel Cooperating in This Domain?
1. Framework of Cooperation
At the 17th India–Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting in November 2025, both nations signed an MoU to share, co-develop, and co-produce advanced technologies.
The cooperation focuses on key domains such as AI, cybersecurity, defence R&D, and innovation ecosystems. This MoU provides a structured roadmap for defence technology partnership, ensuring policy synergy and faster implementation.
2. Legacy and Ongoing Projects
India–Israel defence ties have evolved significantly since the Kargil War (1999), when Israel provided laser-guided bombs and surveillance support.
Recent collaborations include:
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Bharat Forge–Rafael joint venture for advanced missile systems
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Adani–Elbit Systems manufacturing units in India producing UAVs and precision weapons under Make in India
These projects exemplify how joint ventures can combine Israeli technological expertise with India’s production capabilities.
3. Strategic and Regional Synergies
Beyond bilateral cooperation, India and Israel are collaborating through multilateral frameworks such as I2U2 (India, Israel, UAE, USA), which focuses on technology, infrastructure, and innovation.
Both countries are also key partners in the India–Middle East–Europe Economic Corridor (IMEC), linking defence technology, logistics, and trade networks.
Their shared commitment to counterterrorism, intelligence sharing, and strategic innovation reinforces stability and security across the Indo-Pacific and West Asian regions.
Conclusion
The India–Israel defence collaboration marks a strategic shift from a buyer-seller relationship to a technology-driven partnership. By merging India’s industrial base with Israel’s innovation in defence R&D, both nations are paving the way for self-reliance, regional stability, and global competitiveness in advanced defence technology.
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The Source’s Authority and Ownership of the Article is Claimed By THE STUDY IAS BY MANIKANT SINGH
