New Delhi witnessed a significant boost in India-UAE defence relations during the 13th Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting, marking the first Secretary-level discussions in the capital. The high-level talks, co-chaired by India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and UAE’s Under Secretary of Defence Lt General Ibrahim Nasser M Al Alawi, focused on expanding military cooperation between the two nations.

The meeting yielded concrete outcomes, including India’s offer to provide specialized training programs tailored to the UAE Armed Forces’ needs. Both countries agreed to intensify collaboration in critical areas such as maritime security, joint military exercises, and advanced technology development, reflecting the growing strategic partnership.

A landmark Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Indian Coast Guard and UAE National Guard, establishing a framework for enhanced maritime safety cooperation. The agreement covers vital areas including anti-piracy operations, search and rescue missions, and marine pollution response mechanisms.

The discussions also highlighted promising industrial collaboration, with the ICOMM-CARACAL small arms production partnership serving as a model for future joint ventures. Both nations explored opportunities in next-gen defence technologies, including Artificial Intelligence applications, shipbuilding, and platform maintenance.

Preceding the JDCC meeting, military staff from both countries conducted comprehensive Army, Navy, and inaugural Air Force talks, focusing on training enhancement and expert exchanges. The UAE delegation’s itinerary includes meetings with India’s Minister of State for Defence and participation in the 2nd India-UAE Defence Industry Partnership Forum.

This strengthened defence cooperation builds upon the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s 2015 UAE visit. The momentum is expected to continue with India’s planned participation in the 2025 Dubai Air Show, further solidifying the bilateral defence relationship.