Forging a Shield: The Deepening Defense and Security Alliance Between Israel and India
From battlefield collaborations to cutting-edge technology transfers, the partnership has grown into a strategic pillar of bilateral ties
The defense and homeland security (HLS) relationship between Israel and India has grown significantly over the past few decades. Rooted in shared strategic interests, mutual security concerns, and a commitment to technological advancements, this partnership has strengthened both nations’ defense capabilities and enhanced their security frameworks. From joint military exercises and technology transfers to defense trade and counterterrorism cooperation, Israel and India have built a robust and dynamic collaboration in these critical sectors.
A Strategic Partnership
India and Israel officially established diplomatic relations in 1992, and since then, their defense ties have flourished. The relationship gained significant momentum after India’s Kargil War in 1999, when Israel provided crucial military assistance. Since then, India has emerged as one of the largest customers of Israeli defense technology, and Israel has become one of India’s key defense suppliers.
Over the years, this cooperation has evolved beyond arms sales into joint R&D, technology transfers, and strategic collaborations. The bilateral relationship was further cemented when India elevated Israel to the status of a major defense partner, paving the way for greater security cooperation.
Defense Trade and Technology Transfers
Israel has supplied India with a wide range of defense equipment, including sophisticated missile systems, drones, radar systems, and electronic warfare tools. The Indian armed forces have relied on Israeli expertise in areas such as surveillance, intelligence gathering, and border security. Some of the notable defense systems supplied by Israel to India include the Barak-8 surface-to-air missile system, Heron and Harop drones, and advanced radar technologies.
The partnership has also fostered technology transfers, enabling India to strengthen its domestic defense manufacturing capabilities. Through the ‘Make in India’ initiative, Israeli defense firms have partnered with Indian companies to establish joint ventures and manufacturing units. This has allowed for the co-production of advanced military equipment, reducing India’s reliance on imports and boosting its indigenous defense industry.
Joint Research and Development
One of the hallmarks of the India-Israel defense collaboration is joint R&D in cutting-edge military technologies. The two countries have worked together on missile defense systems, cybersecurity solutions, and artificial intelligence-driven defense applications. The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) of India and Israel’s defense companies, such as Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI), and Elbit Systems, have collaborated on several key projects.
The Barak-8 missile system is a prime example of this successful collaboration. Developed jointly by India’s DRDO and Israel’s IAI, the system is a state-of-the-art air defense solution designed to intercept aerial threats, including enemy aircraft and missiles. This project exemplifies how both nations leverage each other’s technological expertise to develop sophisticated defense solutions.
Counterterrorism and Homeland Security Cooperation
Given their shared experiences in dealing with terrorism, Israel and India have developed close cooperation in counterterrorism efforts. India has sought Israeli expertise in securing borders, intelligence gathering, and training its security forces in counterinsurgency operations. Israeli defense firms have provided India with advanced surveillance and reconnaissance systems to monitor and secure its vast and complex borders.
Israel’s expertise in cybersecurity has also been an area of growing collaboration. As cyber threats evolve, both countries have worked together to enhance their cybersecurity frameworks, protecting critical infrastructure and national security assets from cyberattacks.
Military Training and Exercises
Military exchanges and joint exercises have further strengthened defense ties between Israel and India. Indian and Israeli defense forces have conducted joint training programs in counterterrorism operations, urban warfare, and special forces tactics. These exercises facilitate knowledge sharing and enhance interoperability between the two countries’ armed forces.
Indian security personnel, including members of elite forces like the National Security Guard (NSG), have undergone training in Israel to learn advanced counterterrorism techniques and urban combat strategies. These exchanges have helped India enhance its preparedness against asymmetric threats.
Expanding the Partnership
Looking ahead, India and Israel are expected to further deepen their defense cooperation. With a strong foundation of trust and mutual strategic interests, both nations are exploring new avenues of collaboration, including artificial intelligence-driven defense technologies, space-based security solutions, and autonomous weapon systems. The growing emphasis on joint production and co-development will not only enhance India’s defense self-reliance but also pave the way for future innovations in military technology.
