India, Japan Strengthen Ties in Military Hardware Co-Development
India and Japan have agreed to strengthen their collaboration in the co-development of military hardware, marking a significant step in bilateral defense ties.
The agreement was reached during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Tokyo, where he met with his Japanese counterpart Minoru Kihara.
The leaders discussed several key aspects of defense cooperation, emphasizing co-development and production of advanced military technologies. The initiative aims to enhance the defense capabilities of both nations while fostering innovation in critical areas like unmanned systems, robotics, and cyber defense.
Boosting Regional Security
The two nations also reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Recognizing the growing need for security in the region, both countries highlighted the importance of joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and strengthening supply chains for critical defense technologies.
“India and Japan’s growing defense partnership underscores our shared commitment to a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific,” Singh stated after the meeting.
Progress in Defense Projects
Rajnath Singh also reviewed the progress of existing defense projects and encouraged greater participation from private industries in both countries. The two sides agreed to expedite talks on key projects, including the potential co-development of next-generation military vehicles and naval systems.
The discussions included expanding joint training programs for armed forces personnel and increasing engagement between defense institutions of the two nations.
A Step Forward in Strategic Partnership
The defense pact aligns with the India-Japan Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which seeks to bolster cooperation across sectors, including economic, technological, and defense collaboration. Both leaders expressed optimism that the agreement would pave the way for more robust ties in the years to come.
This development comes as India continues to diversify its defense partnerships globally while focusing on self-reliance in military production under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
