India-Israel Strategic Partnership Set for Defence Focus
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Israel on February 25–26, 2026, in what is being described as a landmark diplomatic and defence trip. The two-day visit aims to further deepen defence cooperation and explore advanced missile and weapon technologies, with strategic ties between India and Israel taking centre stage.
Modi and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are expected to hold extensive talks that focus on enhanced military collaboration and shared technological development. Although no major defence contract is currently expected to be signed during this visit, both sides are preparing to expand their existing defence cooperation, which is already valued at about USD 10 billion over the coming years.
MoU on Security Cooperation and Defence Collaboration
Ahead of the visit, India and Israel are expected to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on security cooperation. This MoU is likely to pave the way for closer collaboration on defence technology sharing, co-development, and co-production of advanced systems.
While the MoU will formalize enhanced strategic cooperation, there are no indications of a major new defence deal being finalized at this trip. Defence industry officials explain that India and Israel already maintain extensive collaboration that will continue to grow through ongoing partnerships.
Focus on Anti-Ballistic Missile Defence Cooperation
A key subject of discussion is the joint work on anti-ballistic missile defence systems. Israel, with its globally recognized defensive technology — including Arrow, David’s Sling and Iron Dome — is poised to share its expertise with India in developing systems that can protect against long-range missile threats.
This cooperation is seen as an important component of India’s broader efforts under initiatives such as Mission Sudarshan, which focuses on strengthening the nation’s air and missile defence capabilities. Collaborative work may involve laser-based defence systems, long-range missiles, and unmanned aerial systems (drones).
Long-Range Capabilities & Naval Defence
India is also considering enhanced access to long-range strike capabilities and advanced drone technology that can bolster its deterrence and precision strike potential. In parallel, the Indian Navy is evaluating a newer variant of the Barak missile system to further fortify the defence of naval assets.
These discussions reflect India’s growing priority on multi-layered defence systems that can address contemporary threats from missiles, UAVs, and other strategic platforms.
Beyond Defence: Science, Technology & Strategic Dialogue
The visit will not be limited to defence cooperation alone. Plans are underway for talks on science and technology partnerships, agriculture, clean water solutions, and emerging fields like quantum computing. These areas highlight the broadening scope of India-Israel bilateral engagement beyond traditional military ties.
The personal rapport between Modi and Netanyahu and a shared stance against terrorism are expected to further strengthen this multi-faceted strategic relationship.
