Joint R&D, military engagement & Indo-Pacific security: India, UK deepen defence partnership

India and the United Kingdom have strengthened their defence collaboration, with the Defence Secretary of India leading a crucial meeting in New Delhi. The 25th India-UK Defence Consultative Group meeting, attended by Jeremy Pocklington, saw both nations evaluate the growing defence industrial relationship and focus on research and development under the India-UK Vision 2035 and the Ten Year Defence Industrial Roadmap.

They agreed to enhance military-to-military interactions, including joint exercises, training, and capacity building across their armed forces. Maritime security in the Indo-Pacific was also addressed, given China's increasing assertiveness in the region. Both countries appreciated the advancements made through the Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence, established under the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

The Defence Secretary also honored Indian soldiers at the National War Memorial and explored areas of bilateral cooperation at the Gandhi Smriti Museum and National Defence College. This partnership, which has grown through joint exercises, naval port calls, and air force exchanges, is further bolstered by mechanisms such as the 2+2 Dialogue, Executive Steering Groups, and Defence Equipment Sub-Groups.

The India-UK Free Trade Agreement also contributes to the partnership's strength. Looking ahead, both nations aim to deepen cooperation in advanced technologies like electric propulsion and jet engine core technologies, while focusing on counter-terrorism, cyber resilience, and irregular migration. The coming decade is expected to witness the joint development of advanced systems, with the UK playing a more significant role in India's Indo-Pacific security strategy and bolstering India's strategic and technological autonomy.