NEW DELHI – India and Germany held a high-level Defense Committee meeting in New Delhi on Tuesday, focusing on strengthening their strategic partnership and defense cooperation as the two nations mark 25 years of their strategic relationship.
The meeting was co-chaired by Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh of India and State Secretary Jens Plötner of the German Ministry of Defence. Both sides engaged in comprehensive discussions on various aspects of defense and security cooperation and agreed to accelerate future collaboration.
Focus on Defense Industry and Technology
A central theme of the talks was boosting collaboration between the two countries’ defense industries. The nations agreed to prioritize joint research, development, and production in the areas of innovative and high technologies. This cooperation is expected to pave the way for the creation of advanced defense systems and cutting-edge equipment in the coming years.
Strengthening Military Cooperation
India and Germany underscored that mutual military cooperation is a key pillar of their strategic partnership and pledged to strengthen it further. They agreed to:
- Increase military exchanges.
- Institutionalize joint exercises.
- Regularize defense dialogues at various levels.
Germany’s Increased Engagement in the Indo-Pacific
A notable outcome of the meeting was Germany’s confirmation of its participation in two major multinational military exercises scheduled for 2026:
- Tarang Shakti multinational air exercise.
- Milan multinational naval exercise.
Defense experts suggest Germany’s participation in these exercises will deepen strategic balance and cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. Defense Secretary Singh informed the German delegation that India’s regional role is guided by its ‘SAGAR’ (Security and Growth for All in the Region) policy. India actively contributes to maritime security, capacity building, development partnership, and humanitarian aid and disaster relief (HADR).
Germany acknowledged India’s “extremely important and stabilizing role” in the region.
Looking Ahead
The meeting underscored that 2025 symbolizes the 25th anniversary of the India-Germany Strategic Partnership. Both nations reiterated their commitment to deepening cooperation based on shared values, multilateralism, and a dedication to global peace.
Defense experts believe this high-level meeting sets a new direction for bilateral defense ties, with decisions on defense production, advanced technology, military exercises, and regional security cooperation expected to significantly strengthen the strategic partnership in the coming years.
