India and Italy Forge Unbreakable Defense Partnership: Boosting Collaboration and Strengthening Ties
India and Italy have signed a bilateral agreement to boost defense and security cooperation, focusing on co-development, co-production, and joint ventures. The pact covers defense policy, R&D, education, maritime awareness, and information-sharing. The deal signifies an important step in expanding defense collaboration between both countries and follows the lifting of the ban on Italian arms major, Leonardo. Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh's visit also aims to strengthen strategic relations and enhance collaboration with Italian defense companies. The historical connection between India and Italy was further emphasized through Singh's tribute to Indian soldiers in World War II.
India and Italy have signed an agreement to promote cooperation in defense and security. The bilateral pact, signed during Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh's visit to Italy, aims to foster "co-development, co-production, and setting up of joint ventures" between Indian and Italian companies in the defense sector. The agreement covers various domains, including defense policy, R&D, education, maritime domain awareness, and information-sharing. The defense ministers of both countries discussed the potential for joint development and collaboration between Indian startups and Italian defense companies.
This agreement marks a significant step in expanding defense cooperation between India and Italy, following the lifting of the ban on Italian arms major Leonardo, the parent company of AgustaWestland, by the Indian Defense Ministry in 2021. The visit to Italy is part of Singh's tour, which also includes France, to enhance bilateral strategic engagements.
Singh's discussions with Italian defense companies emphasized the opportunities for co-development and co-production of military systems. He highlighted the ease of doing business in India and encouraged Italian defense manufacturers to strengthen supply chain linkages with Indian counterparts. Additionally, Singh paid tribute to Indian soldiers who fought in the Italian Campaign during World War II, further deepening the historical connection between the two countries.
