Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s two-day visit to Israel from February 25–26, India is preparing to expand its strategic and defence partnership with Tel Aviv.
While both sides are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on security cooperation, officials have clarified that no specific defence deal will be formally signed during the visit. Defence engagement between the two countries is an ongoing process, currently valued at approximately USD 10 billion over the coming years.
Prime Minister Modi is scheduled to hold talks with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, with discussions likely to focus on defence, technology, trade and counter-terror cooperation.
Focus on Anti-Ballistic Missile Defence and Advanced Systems
A key area under discussion is joint development of anti-ballistic missile defence systems under India’s Mission Sudershan initiative, which aims to protect Indian territory from long-range missile threats.
Israel is regarded as a global leader in missile defence technologies, including:
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Arrow missile system (long-range)
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David’s Sling (medium-range)
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Iron Dome (short-range)
These systems have been widely tested in operational environments and are considered among the most advanced in the world.
India is also exploring collaboration in:
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High-energy laser defence systems
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Long-range stand-off missiles
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Armed drones and loitering munitions
The groundwork for expanded cooperation was laid during Defence Secretary RK Singh’s visit to Israel last November, when an MoU on enhanced defence collaboration was signed.
Procurement of Long-Range Missiles and Naval Systems
India is also evaluating the acquisition and joint development of long-range precision strike systems capable of being launched from air, land and sea platforms.
Among the systems under consideration are:
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SPICE 1000 guided bombs
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Rampage missile air-to-surface missiles
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LORA missile air-launched ballistic missiles
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Ice Breaker missile long-range precision strike systems
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Extended-range Barak 8 for Indian Navy warships
These systems are designed to enhance India’s capability to strike high-value targets beyond enemy air defence networks while strengthening maritime security.
Broader Strategic Dialogue
Beyond defence, both countries are expected to discuss cooperation in:
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Science and technology
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Agriculture innovation
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Clean drinking water solutions
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Quantum computing
India and Israel have maintained close political and security ties in recent years, frequently aligning on counter-terrorism and strategic matters.
The upcoming visit is expected to further consolidate bilateral ties and lay the framework for deeper technological and defence collaboration.
