In recent years, India has actively pursued and signed several significant defence agreements, reflecting its strategic intent to modernize its military capabilities, enhance regional security, and foster international partnerships. These agreements span collaborations with major powers like the United States, France, and Russia, as well as regional allies such as Oman and Singapore. This article provides a comprehensive overview of India's major defence agreements in the recent past, highlighting their objectives, scope, and implications for national and regional security.
1. India–United States Defence Cooperation
Foundational Agreements
India and the United States have signed several foundational agreements to facilitate closer military cooperation:
General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA) (2002): Enables sharing of classified information between the two governments.The Indian Express India Brand Equity Foundation
Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) (2016): Allows mutual logistical support between the armed forces, including refueling and replenishment.The Indian Express
Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) (2018): Facilitates secure communication between the two militaries.The Indian Express
Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) (2020): Enables sharing of geospatial intelligence and satellite data.The Indian Express
These agreements have significantly enhanced interoperability and strategic alignment between India and the U.S. The Indian Express SAMDeS India
Defence Trade and Technology
India has emerged as a major defence partner of the U.S., with significant acquisitions including:
C-17 Globemaster III and C-130J Hercules transport aircraft India Today
Apache and Chinook helicopters India Today
P-8I Poseidon maritime patrol aircraft India Today
In 2025, discussions have advanced regarding the potential acquisition of F-35 stealth fighter jets, marking a significant step in defence collaboration. India Brand Equity Foundation
2. India–France Defence Agreements
Rafale Fighter Jets
In April 2025, India signed a $7.4 billion deal with France to procure 26 Rafale Marine fighter jets for the Indian Navy. This follows an earlier acquisition of 36 Rafale jets for the Air Force, enhancing India's air combat capabilities. Reuters
Strategic Collaboration
France has been a longstanding defence partner, contributing to India's submarine capabilities and supporting indigenous defence manufacturing through technology transfers and joint ventures.
3. India–Russia Defence Cooperation
Historical Ties and Ongoing Projects
Russia remains a key defence partner, with collaborations including:
Production of T-90 tanks and Su-30MKI aircraft India Brand Equity Foundation
Supply of MiG-29K aircraft and various helicopters India Brand Equity Foundation
Development of multi-role transport aircraft and fifth-generation fighter aircraftIndia Brand Equity Foundation
These projects underscore the deep-rooted military-technical cooperation between the two nations. India Brand Equity Foundation
4. India–Israel Defence Collaboration
Advanced Technology and Joint Development
India and Israel have strengthened defence ties, focusing on
Joint development of advanced weapons systems
Collaboration on missile defence technologies
Sharing of intelligence and counter-terrorism strategiesSAMDeS India
The "India-Israel Vision on Defence Cooperation" outlines a 10-year roadmap for deepening this partnership. Wikipedia India Brand Equity Foundation The Indian Express
5. India–Oman Strategic Partnership
Maritime Cooperation
Oman was the first Gulf nation to formalize defence relations with India, granting access to its ports for anti-piracy operations and naval exercises. The bilateral naval exercise 'Naseem al-Bahr' exemplifies this cooperation. Wikipedia
6. India–Singapore Defence Relations
Joint Training and Exercises
India and Singapore have a robust defence relationship, including:Wikipedia
Annual naval exercises like SIMBEXWikipedia
Agreements allowing Singapore's armed forces to train in IndiaWikipedia
Collaborations on maritime security and counter-terrorismSAMDeS India
These initiatives enhance regional stability and interoperability. Wikipedia
7. India–Japan Defence Cooperation
Security Pact and Exercises
India and Japan share strategic interests in the Indo-Pacific, formalized through a security pact signed in 2008. Joint military exercises and technology cooperation further solidify this partnership. Wikipedia SAMDeS India
8. India–China Border Agreements
Border Defence Cooperation Agreement (BDCA)
Signed in 2013, the BDCA aims to maintain peace along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) through confidence-building measures and information sharing. Wikipedia
2024 Border Patrol Agreement
In 2024, India and China agreed to resume patrolling in disputed border areas, aiming to de-escalate tensions following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes. Wikipedia apnews.com
9. Multilateral Defence Exercises
Tarang Shakti 2024
India hosted its largest multinational air exercise, Tarang Shakti 2024, involving air forces from 10 countries and observers from 18 nations. The exercise aimed to enhance interoperability and showcase India's defence capabilities. SAMDeS India Wikipedia
Yudh Abhyas 2024
The 20th edition of the India-US joint military exercise focused on counter-terrorism operations under UN mandates, reflecting deepening military cooperation. SAMDeS India
Conclusion
India's recent defence agreements signify a strategic shift towards diversifying partnerships, enhancing military capabilities, and asserting its role in regional and global security. Through collaborations with established and emerging partners, India aims to modernize its defence forces, promote indigenous manufacturing, and contribute to a stable security environment in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.
❓ Trending Questions (FAQs)
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What are India's most significant defence agreements since 2020?
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India has signed key agreements with the U.S. (LEMOA, COMCASA, BECA, SOSA), France (Rafale jet deals), and Russia (S-400 systems, AK-203 rifles).
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How have these agreements impacted India's military capabilities?
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They have enhanced interoperability, modernized equipment, and improved strategic positioning.
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What is the significance of the BECA agreement with the U.S.?
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BECA allows India to access advanced geospatial data, improving missile accuracy and battlefield awareness.
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Has India signed any defence agreements with France recently?
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Yes, including deals for 26 Rafale-Marine fighter jets to bolster naval aviation.
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What is the status of the S-400 missile system deal with Russia?
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Deliveries have commenced, enhancing India's air defence capabilities.
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Are there any joint defence production initiatives under these agreements?
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Yes, such as the AK-203 rifle production in India and potential jet engine collaborations.
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How do these agreements align with India's 'Make in India' initiative?
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They promote indigenous manufacturing and technology transfers.
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What role does the Quad alliance play in India's defence strategy?
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It enhances maritime security and strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.apnews.com
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Has India engaged in any new defence agreements with the UK?
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Yes, including a Free Trade Agreement that encompasses defence cooperation.The Indian Express
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What is the 'US-India COMPACT' initiative?
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A 10-year defence framework to facilitate technology transfer and co-production.
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How do these agreements affect India's position in the Indo-Pacific?
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They strengthen India's role as a key security provider in the region.
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Are there any concerns about India's defence agreements with multiple countries?
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Balancing relations with diverse partners requires careful diplomacy to avoid conflicts of interest.
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What is the impact of these agreements on India's defence exports?
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They enhance India's capabilities, potentially boosting defence exports.
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How do these agreements influence India's counter-terrorism efforts?
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Improved intelligence sharing and advanced equipment aid in counter-terrorism operations.
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What future defence agreements are in the pipeline for India?
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Discussions are ongoing for further collaborations, including advanced drone technologies and cyber defence.
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