India and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) have taken a significant step forward in their defence relationship, agreeing to deepen cooperation during a high-level meeting at the Dubai Airshow 2025. Sanjay Seth, India’s Minister of State for Defence, met with Mohammed Mubarak Al Mazrouei, the UAE’s Minister of State for Defence Affairs, to explore ways to strengthen bilateral ties and enhance strategic collaboration.
The meeting, held on Monday, focused on expanding training, technology, and joint development initiatives. According to India’s Defence Ministry, both leaders agreed to hold regular meetings, participate in each other’s defence events, and broaden training collaborations. Seth also encouraged the UAE to explore joint research programmes, co-development of equipment, and co-production of defence technologies. These areas could significantly boost cooperation and pave the way for future defence innovations.
“This partnership is crucial for both nations as we navigate the evolving security landscape,” Seth said. “By combining our strengths, we can achieve greater advancements in defence technology and ensure our mutual security.”
A key highlight of the meeting was the inauguration of the BRAHMOS missile stall at the airshow. BRAHMOS, India’s supersonic cruise missile system, is one of the major attractions at this year’s event. The missile, known for its versatility, can be launched from multiple platforms, including ships, submarines, mobile land-based launchers, and aircraft. It is designed to hit both land and sea-based targets with precision.
“The BRAHMOS missile system has garnered significant interest from global visitors, reflecting its advanced capabilities and reliability,” said an official from the Indian Consulate in Dubai. “This interest underscores the growing recognition of India’s defence technologies on the world stage.”
Seth also visited the Vista Startup Zone at the airshow, where he interacted with 15 winners of the iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) programme. These Indian startups are showcasing cutting-edge aerospace technologies, innovative defence solutions, and next-generation systems. The interaction highlighted India’s growing capabilities in indigenous innovation and its commitment to fostering a robust defence ecosystem.
In addition, Seth inaugurated the India Pavilion at the Dubai Airshow. The pavilion showcases India’s progress in defence manufacturing and technology, featuring indigenous fighter jet systems, advanced aerospace platforms, and future-ready defence startups. It reflects the government’s focus on promoting self-reliance under the “Make in India” and “Aatmanirbhar Bharat” initiatives.
Seth is leading a senior Indian delegation to the airshow, which includes officials from the Ministry of Defence, the Ministry of External Affairs, the Department of Defence Production, and representatives from the Indian Armed Forces. India’s active participation at the show highlights its growing role in the global defence and aerospace industry.
The meeting between Seth and Al Mazrouei signals a stronger India-UAE partnership in the years ahead. As both nations continue to invest in defence innovation and collaboration, their strategic partnership is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping regional and global security dynamics.
“This is just the beginning of a transformative journey for both our nations,” Al Mazrouei remarked. “Together, we can achieve new heights in defence technology and security cooperation.”
The deepening of defence ties between India and the UAE comes at a time when both countries are looking to enhance their military capabilities and technological advancements. This partnership not only strengthens their individual defence sectors but also contributes to broader regional stability and security.