India and Israel share a multifaceted relationship that has evolved significantly over the past few decades. While their diplomatic relations were formally established in 1992, the historical ties between the two nations trace back much further1 . The historical connection between India and Israel can be traced back to ancient times, with mentions of Jewish communities in India as early as 2,500 years ago (Embassy of India, Tel Aviv, Israel, n.d.). India has been a welcoming home for Jews for centuries, providing a safe haven throughout various historical upheavals2 . The Jewish community in India, including the Bene Israelis, Cochin Jews, and Baghdadi Jews, has contributed significantly to Indian culture, commerce, and society3 . Their legacy is intertwined with India's rich tapestry of diversity, demonstrating the harmonious coexistence of different faiths and cultures. The relationship between India and Israel is thus not merely defined by diplomatic ties and defence collaborations, it is deeply rooted in a shared civilizational heritage that spans over two millennia.
Evolution Of India-Israel Defence Ties
Despite historical ties, defence cooperation remained limited for years due to India's nonalignment policy and its relationships with Arab nations. The defence collaboration between India and Israel has emerged as a key component of their bilateral relations, evolving from initial security assistance to a multifaceted strategic partnership that addresses contemporary security challenges. This partnership has been shaped by geopolitical realities, technological advancements, and mutual interests, particularly in the context of regional security issues, such as the Iranian nuclear ambitions. India and Israel officially established diplomatic relations in 1992, but their defence ties can be traced back to earlier years4 .
Israel provided critical military support to India during conflicts with Pakistan, particularly in the 1965,1971 and 1999 wars (Kuo, 2024; Prasad & Rajiv, 2020)5 . India's initial engagement with Israel was driven by security needs, particularly during the India-Pakistan wars, when Israel supplied crucial military equipment, such as 160 mm mortars. This early relationship set the stage for deeper collaboration post-19926 . The Kargil conflict of 1999 significantly reinforced defence ties, leading to enhanced procurement of artillery ammunition and a broader range of advanced military technologies (Rajiv, 2022)7 . This early collaboration laid the groundwork for a robust defence relationship that has grown significantly over the years.
As geopolitical dynamics shifted, particularly after the 9/11 attacks and rising terrorism in South Asia, India began to reassess its defence alliances. The growing security threats from neighboring countries further required India to seek advanced military technology and expertise, which Israel could provide. India’s defence collaboration with Israel has emerged as a crucial component of its national security strategy. As both countries face similar challenges such as terrorism, border disputes, and regional instability, the partnership allows for the exchange of intelligence, technology, and military know-how.
The geopolitical landscape of the Middle East has been complex, with India and Israel often facing similar security concerns. One of the main issues is Iran's nuclear program, which both countries view as a potential threat to regional stability. India has consistently opposed a nuclear-armed Iran, fearing it would embolden Pakistan, which has its own nuclear arsenal. Despite differing approaches, India and Israel have found common ground in their commitment to enhance security and tackle mutual threats. For instance, both countries are cautious about the activities of terrorist groups in the region. Their collaboration has intensified over time, leading to significant agreements and joint initiatives.
Collaborative defence Development Projects
The economic dimension of India-Israel defence collaboration has also grown considerably. Bilateral trade reached around $500 million in 1995 and peaked at approximately $6.7 billion in 2011- 12. However, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, trade declined to $4.6 billion in 2020-218 . Yet, it rebounded in 2021-22, reaching $6.9 billion, largely driven by “Defence and Diamond” exports. After establishing diplomatic relations in 1992, India began gradually increasing its defence purchases from Israel, starting with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and patrol boats9 . The procurement of Searcher UAVs in 1996 and Super Dvora patrol boats marked the beginning of a robust arms relationship. Over 150 Searcher and Heron UAVs from Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) have bolstered India’s surveillance capabilities10. These UAVs have been vital for maritime security operations and internal security. The commissioning of multiple UAV squadrons, including one by the Western Naval Command in January 2011, showcases their strategic importance. The recently incubated project ‘Cheetah’ involves the upgrade of the Indian Military's Heron drones by Israel through a deal valued at nearly 5,000 crores11 .
Israel's advanced defence technology makes it a crucial partner for India as the country embarks on a significant military modernization drive. As the world's largest importer of weapons by value, India represented 10 percent of global arms imports between 2008 and 202312. Over the next decade, India is expected to invest at least $200 billion to upgrade its armed forces. In the past decade, India has purchased $2.9 billion worth of military equipment from Israel, including radars, surveillance and combat drones, and missiles13. Additionally, the acquisition of Phalcon airborne warning and control systems (AWACS) in 2004 marked a significant advancement in India’s aerial surveillance capabilities14. The delivery of the first three AWACS aircraft between 2009 and 2011 highlighted India's commitment to modernizing its defence capabilities.
India has also procured a range of Israeli radars, including battlefield surveillance radars and advanced air search radars, enhancing the operational effectiveness of its air and naval forces. The IndiaIsrael partnership has significantly advanced through several joint development initiatives in the defence sector, showcasing the depth of their collaboration. A key achievement is the joint development of longrange surface-to-air missiles (LRSAM) and medium-range surface-to-air missiles (MRSAM), which aim to enhance India’s air defence capabilities against diverse aerial threats15. The first batch of LRSAM missiles was delivered to the Indian Navy in 2017, marking a significant milestone16. Additionally, the MRSAMs have been specifically designed for the Indian Army and Air Force, reflecting a comprehensive approach to strengthening India's defence architecture.
Moreover, the procurement of Spike anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs) further illustrates the operational needs driving defence acquisitions, particularly following the Balakot strikes in February 201917. This highlighted India's urgent requirement for advanced anti-tank capabilities amidst escalating regional tensions. Together, these initiatives not only bolster India’s defence capabilities but also foster technological innovation and military synergy between the two nations, reinforcing their strategic partnership in a complex security environment.
In addition, India's defence acquisitions from Israel encompass a range of advanced equipment, including missiles such as the Derby Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missiles (BVRAM), Hero loitering munition, Python-5 BVRAM, SPICE-2000 guided bombs, Popeye-1 Air-to-Surface Missile (ASM), and SkyStriker loitering munition18. In the realm of sensors and radars, key purchases include the EL/M-2248 MF-STAR multi-function radar, EL/M-2084 multi-mission radar system, ELM-2238 naval radar system, EL/M-2052 airborne AESA fire control radar, and the LITENING electro-optical infrared (IR) sensor system19. For air defence, India has acquired the Spyder medium-range Surface-toAir (SAM) system and the Barak SAM system. Besides, the Negev NG-7 light machine gun has also been included in India's defence inventory20 .
Moreover, the signing of the Bilateral Innovation Agreement (BIA) in November 2021 between India’s defence Research and Development Organization (DRDO) and Israel's DDR&D aims to foster innovation and expedite research and development in startups and micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs) in both countries21. This collaborative effort seeks to develop dual-use technologies that can address contemporary security challenges (Ministry of External Affairs, 2023).
In 2021, India and Israel signed a Multi-Sectoral Agreement to boost cooperation in addressing various security challenges. The agreement focused on strengthening collaboration in areas such as defence technology, intelligence sharing, and counter-terrorism efforts. Additionally, at the 15th meeting of the India-Israel Joint Working Group (JWG) on Defence Cooperation, both countries agreed to establish a task force to develop a comprehensive 10-year roadmap aimed at exploring new areas for partnership22 .
Joint Military Exercise Programs
The India-Israel joint military exercise "Blue Flag" represents a crucial milestone in the growing defence partnership between the two nations, particularly in the field of aerial combat. This exercise serves as an important platform for enhancing the operational capabilities and tactical cooperation between the Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Israel defence Forces (IDF), focusing on advancing each country's air operations to meet modern security challenges23. Blue Flag is a comprehensive training program that brings together personnel from both the IAF and IDF to engage in a series of high-intensity, complex training scenarios. The primary objective of this exercise is to strengthen the aerial combat capabilities of both air forces, focusing on several critical areas such as air-to-air combat, ground attack missions, and counter-terrorism operations. These elements are key to modern warfare, where rapid and effective airstrike and defence operations are essential to success. Through the collaboration, both nations are able to simulate realistic combat situations, testing their abilities to operate in diverse and high-pressure environments.
One of the core aspects of the exercise is the exchange of knowledge and expertise between the two air forces. Israel’s air force is one of the most technologically advanced in the world, particularly in terms of precision strike capabilities, surveillance systems, and air defence. India, with its rapidly modernizing air force, benefits greatly from this exposure, learning new tactics, techniques, and procedures that can be adapted to its own operational needs. On the other hand, Israel also gains valuable insights into the operational styles and strategies of one of the largest air forces in the region, particularly in handling large-scale joint operations in a diverse operational environment.
The exercise goes beyond bilateral military training—it plays a significant role in fostering regional stability. By improving the operational readiness and coordination between the Indian and Israeli air forces, the exercise contributes to creating a stronger regional defence network. This enhanced cooperation can serve as a deterrent to potential adversaries and promote peace in volatile areas. The collaboration is particularly valuable in the context of shared security concerns in the Middle East and South Asia, where both nations face common threats such as terrorism and regional instability24 . Furthermore, Blue Flag offers an opportunity for joint humanitarian operations, disaster response exercises, and intelligence sharing, further enhancing the defence ties between the two countries. By participating in a high-level, complex military exercise, both the Indian and Israeli air forces develop greater interoperability, making it easier for them to collaborate in actual conflict scenarios, should the need arise.
India-Israel Strategic Partnership
India and Israel are deepening their defence cooperation through strategic collaborations aimed at enhancing aerospace and defence capabilities. These partnerships are closely aligned with India’s “Make in India” initiative, which emphasizes local manufacturing and technological self-reliance. Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI) has joined hands with Taneja Aerospace & Aviation Ltd. (TAAL) to develop, produce, and market crashworthy seats for civil and military aircraft25. These seats will be manufactured in India, strengthening the domestic aerospace industry. Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) has partnered with IAI’s Elta Systems to equip the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft with advanced radars and electronic warfare systems, enhancing India’s indigenous combat aircraft program26 .
Bengaluru-based Alpha Design Technologies has signed a $30 million contract with Elbit Systems of Israel to upgrade the Indian Air Force’s Mi-17 helicopters, ensuring these vital assets remain operationally robust. Additionally, the Adani Group has partnered with Elbit Systems to establish a UAV manufacturing facility in Hyderabad27. The facility will initially produce the Hermes 900 model, supporting both domestic requirements and export opportunities28. The Indian Navy is also reaping the benefits of Israel’s advanced technologies. Tata Power’s Strategic Engineering Division, in collaboration with DSIT Israel, will supply Portable Diver Detection Sonar (PDDS) systems to enhance underwater surveillance29 . These systems will be manufactured locally, fostering Indian expertise in sonar technologies. Mahindra Defence and Israel’s Aeronautics are jointly developing Naval Shipborne UAV systems to meet the Navy’s operational needs30. In the realm of strategic electronics, Shachaf Engineering of Israel has partnered with Mahindra Telephonics to co-develop components for aerospace, marine, and automotive applications31. This agreement includes technology transfer, boosting India’s technical capabilities. Furthermore, Punj Lloyd and Israel Weapons Industries (IWI) have launched a joint venture to manufacture small arms in India, catering to both domestic and global markets32. These collaborations underscore the growing IndiaIsrael defence partnership, focusing on indigenous production, technology transfer, and innovation. This evolving relationship not only enhances both nations’ defence ecosystems but also positions them as leaders in advanced defence manufacturing.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the defence partnership between India and Israel has grown into a strong and meaningful collaboration, built on shared goals, technological advancements, and economic cooperation. This relationship has not only boosted the defence capabilities of both countries but has also become an important part of their overall security strategies. By combining India’s manufacturing strength with Israel’s cutting-edge defence technology, the partnership has created opportunities for mutual growth and innovation. The collaboration covers key areas like aerospace, naval systems, unmanned vehicles, and advanced electronics. Joint efforts, such as building UAVs, crashworthy aircraft seats, and small arms, along with technology transfers in radar and sonar systems, align closely with India’s “Make in India” program. These projects are not just about short-term benefits but are designed to create long-lasting improvements in both nations' defence industries. In today’s world, where security challenges like terrorism, cyber threats, and regional tensions are on the rise, the partnership is vital for addressing common concerns. For example, the Indian Navy’s use of Israel’s advanced sonar systems improves maritime security in the Indian Ocean. Similarly, adding Israeli radar and electronic systems to India’s Tejas fighter jets enhances India’s air defence capabilities, showing how this cooperation directly strengthens national security.
This partnership is also creating economic benefits. By manufacturing equipment locally and sharing technology, it generates jobs, supports local industries, and encourages innovation in both countries. It sets an example of how two nations can work together to build a strong defence relationship that also boosts their economies. As India and Israel continue to deepen their ties, their partnership is set to play an important role in ensuring regional security and shaping the global defence landscape. By tackling shared security challenges and driving technological progress, this collaboration is helping to build a safer, more stable, and prosperous future for both nations in a complex and interconnected world.
Endnotes
1 Brief on India-Israel Bilateral Relations, Embassy of India, Tel Aviv, Israel.
2 Griffith B, India and The Jewish Connection, The Wexner Foundation, April 2012.
3 Griffith B, India and The Jewish Connection, The Wexner Foundation, April 2012
4 Jayant Prasad & S. Samuel C. Rajiv, India and Israel: The Making of a Strategic Partnership, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2020.
5 Kuo M. A, India-Israel Defense and Security Cooperation, The Diplomat, November 2024.
6 Kuo M. A, India-Israel Defense and Security Cooperation, The Diplomat, November 2024.
7 Jayant Prasad & S. Samuel C. Rajiv, India and Israel: The Making of a Strategic Partnership, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2020.
8 Jayant Prasad & S. Samuel C. Rajiv, India and Israel: The Making of a Strategic Partnership, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2020.
9 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
10 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022
11 Indo-Israeli defence relationship a key pillar of growing partnership: Foreign Minister Cohen, The Economic Times, September 20, 2023.
12 Kuo M. A, India-Israel Defense and Security Cooperation, The Diplomat, November 2024.
13 Kuo M. A, India-Israel Defense and Security Cooperation, The Diplomat, November 2024.
14 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
15 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
16 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
17 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
18 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
19 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
20 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
21 India-Israel Bilateral Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, 2023.
22 India-Israel Bilateral Relations, Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India, 2023.
23 Journal of Air Power and Space Studies, Centre for Air Power Studies, New Delhi, 2022.
24 Journal of Air Power and Space Studies, Centre for Air Power Studies, New Delhi, 2022.
25 Jayant Prasad & S. Samuel C. Rajiv, India and Israel: The Making of a Strategic Partnership, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2020.
26 Jayant Prasad & S. Samuel C. Rajiv, India and Israel: The Making of a Strategic Partnership, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2020.
27 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
28 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
29 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
30 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
31 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
32 S. Samuel C. Rajiv, The India-Israel Defence and Security Partnership at 30, Manohar Parrikar Institute for Defence Studies and Analyses, 2022.
