The signing of a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between India and Israel marks a significant milestone in defence and technological cooperation, underscoring a shared commitment to security and innovation. The agreement, formalised during the annual Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting in Tel Aviv on 4 November 2025, reflects a deepening partnership between the two nations.
Co-chaired by Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Major General (Res) Amir Baram, Director General of the Israeli Ministry of Defence (IMoD), the MoU outlines a strategic vision for expanded collaboration. It identifies key areas for cooperation, including defence industrial initiatives, science and technology, research and development, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. The agreement also encourages co-development and co-production, fostering a framework for technology sharing and joint innovation.
During the JWG meeting, delegates reviewed ongoing defence projects and existing initiatives, noting the mutual benefits of past collaborations. Discussions centred on potential areas for further cooperation in advanced technologies, with both sides emphasising the importance of enhancing operational capabilities. Shared concerns such as terrorism were also addressed, reinforcing a coordinated approach to addressing security threats.
A dedicated panel involving chief executives of major Israeli defence industries was convened during the visit. Industry leaders presented recent technological developments and proposed collaborative projects aimed at strengthening industrial-defence partnerships between Israeli firms and their Indian counterparts.
“This strategic dialogue with India takes place at a critical juncture for both countries,” said Major General (Res) Amir Baram. “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 defence, technology, and industry.”
The meeting included high-ranking officials from both governments. The Israeli delegation comprised senior members from the Political-Military Bureau, Directorate of Defence Research & Development (DDR&D), Directorate of Security of the Defence Establishment, International Defence Cooperation Directorate (SIBAT), as well as representatives from the IDF Planning Directorate and other defence officials. The Indian delegation included senior representatives from India’s Ministry of Defence (MoD) and Armed Forces.
In a post on X, India’s Ministry of Defence stated: “Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh called on Israeli Defence Minister Mr. Israel Katz and briefed him on the key outcomes of the Joint Working Group (JWG) meeting, aimed at further strengthening the robust and enduring defence cooperation between India and Israel.”
Earlier in 2025, Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) and DCX Systems established a new joint venture named ELTX, aimed at bolstering the Indian government’s self-reliance initiative, ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’, and its ‘Make in India’ campaign.
This latest MoU underscores the growing synergy between India and Israel in defence and technology. As both nations navigate evolving security challenges, their partnership is poised to drive innovation, enhance operational readiness, and strengthen regional stability. The agreement not only solidifies existing collaborations but also paves the way for future joint ventures, ensuring that both countries remain at the forefront of defence and technological advancements.