India and Israel have signed a new defense agreement to co-develop and produce advanced military technology, marking another step in their growing security partnership.

New Delhi said the pact sets a “unified vision and policy direction” for deeper military collaboration, including cooperation in artificial intelligence, cyber defense, defense research, innovation, and training.

The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed in Tel Aviv during the 17th India-Israel Joint Working Group on defense cooperation, and was led by Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Maj. Gen. Amir Baram, director general of Israel’s Ministry of Defense.

During the meeting, officials also reviewed existing defense projects and new areas of collaboration, noting that both sides have benefited from each other’s capabilities.

They also reaffirmed their shared commitment to counterterrorism and addressing common security threats.

“The MoU will enable the sharing of advanced technology and would promote co-development and co-production,” the Indian defense agency said.

High-Level Talks, Strengthening Ties

During the visit, Singh also met with Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz to discuss the outcomes of the working group and explore ways to enhance future defense programs.

India remains one of the biggest buyers of Tel Aviv’s military gear, including drones, missiles, and precision-guided weapons.

According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute, Israel accounted for 13 percent of India’s arms imports from 2020 to 2024, making it the South Asian country’s third-largest supplier after Russia and France.

Prior to the latest MoU, Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar visited New Delhi for talks with Indian External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar and National Security Adviser Ajit Doval.

Their discussions covered defense, trade, and counterinsurgency, with both sides reaffirming a zero-tolerance approach toward terrorism.