Israel, India Sign New Defense Cooperation Agreement to Boost Industrial and Technological Ties

Key Facts

Published: November 5, 2025 Location: Jerusalem Source: Wire Services

• Israel and India sign new MoU to expand defense, industrial, and tech cooperation
• Talks led by Israeli DG Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram and Indian Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh
• India reportedly pursuing $3.75B missile deal and $900M refueling aircraft conversion with Israel Aerospace Industries
• Agreement comes amid Gaza war and Western nations’ reduced defense ties with Israel

by Worthy News Jerusalem Bureau Staff

JERUSALEM (Worthy News) – Israel and India signed a new Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on Tuesday to deepen cooperation in defense, industrial production, and technological innovation, the Israeli Ministry of Defense announced.

The agreement was inked during the annual meeting of the bilateral Joint Working Group (JWG), led by Israel’s Defense Ministry Director General Maj. Gen. (Res.) Amir Baram and Indian Defense Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh.

As part of the high-level talks, the Indian delegation also met with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz and held a forum with CEOs of major Israeli defense companies to explore new opportunities in industrial-defense collaboration.

The MoU aims to expand cooperation in joint defense manufacturing, research, and advanced technology development. Officials said the accord reflects both nations’ commitment to a long-term strategic partnership amid regional and global security challenges.

“This strategic dialogue with India takes place at a critical juncture for both countries,” Baram said. “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.”

While details of the new agreement were not publicly disclosed, previous reports indicate India’s interest in acquiring Medium-Range Surface-to-Air Missile (MRSAM) systems and advanced rockets from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) in a deal worth about $3.75 billion. IAI has also been contracted to convert six commercial aircraft into air refueling planes for the Indian Air Force at an estimated cost of $900 million.

The deal comes as Israel seeks to strengthen strategic partnerships with key allies, even as several Western democracies have reduced defense engagements due to the ongoing war in Gaza. Analysts say the agreement with India — the world’s largest democracy — could bolster Israel’s international standing and sustain its defense export industry.

Latest Worthy News