India and Israel Sign Major Defense Cooperation Pact
India and Israel have signed a landmark defense agreement to deepen military and technological cooperation, including joint research, co-development, and co-production of advanced defense systems. The deal, valued at approximately $4.6 billion, covers missile systems and aircraft conversion. Both nations reaffirmed their strategic partnership and commitment to fighting terrorism.
India and Israel have formalized a sweeping defense cooperation pact aimed at strengthening their strategic partnership through advanced technology sharing, joint research, and co-production of military systems. The agreement was signed in Tel Aviv during a joint working group meeting, with Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Israeli Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res) Amir Baram as co-chairs. The deal reportedly includes India's acquisition of rockets and medium-range surface-to-air missile systems from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) worth $3.75 billion, as well as a $900 million contract for converting commercial aircraft into aerial refueling planes. The pact coincides with the visit of Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar to New Delhi, where he and Indian External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar highlighted the trust and reliability underpinning bilateral ties. Israel remains a top arms supplier to India, accounting for 34% of its arms imports in 2025, while Russia remains the largest overall supplier. The agreement also underscores shared interests in regional stability, innovation, and a collective resolve against terrorism. Both nations discussed the Gaza Peace Plan and reiterated their commitment to a global zero-tolerance approach to terrorism.
