Israel, India sign major defense deal in shadow of weapons boycotts
The defense deal is going forward at a time when many other democracies have cut back on their defense relations with Israel due to the war in Gaza.
The Israel-India Joint Working Group (JWG) convened on Tuesday for its annual meeting, led by Defense Ministry Director-General Maj.-Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram and Indian Defense Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.
During the meeting, the two countries signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance defense, industrial, and technological cooperation.
While the announcement gave few details, previously it has been reported that India would acquire rockets for its ground forces and Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile air defense missiles developed by Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) for around $3.75 billion, and that IAI would convert six commercial planes into Indian Air Force refueling aircraft for $900 million.
The defense deal is going forward at a time when many other democracies have cut back on their defense relations with Israel due to the war in Gaza.
Signing a deal with India, the world’s largest democracy, could assist Israel in rebuilding its reputation globally.
Defense Minister Israel Katz with IDF soldiers in the West Bank; illustrative. (credit: SCREENSHOT/X/ISRAEL KATZ)
As part of the visit, the Indian delegation met with Defense Minister Israel Katz.
Indian delegation meets major Israeli defense authorities
Additionally, a special panel was held with the CEOs of major defense industries, during which, according to the ministry, “innovative and groundbreaking Israeli technologies were presented, along with ideas and projects aimed at deepening industrial-defense partnerships between Israel’s defense industries and India.”
Some of the other senior Israeli officials involved included the directors of the Political-Military Bureau, the Directorate of Defense Research & Development (DDR&D), the Directorate of Security of the Defense Establishment, and the International Defense Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), alongside representatives from the IDF Planning Directorate and other defense officials.
The Indian delegation also included senior representatives from the Defense Ministry and Armed Forces.
Regarding the meeting, Baram said, “This strategic dialogue with India takes place at a critical juncture for both countries. Our strategic partnership is based on deep mutual trust and shared security interests. We view India as a first-rate strategic partner and are determined to continue deepening cooperation in the fields of defense, technology, and industry.”
