India and UAE explore ways to strengthen defence ties, Pg14

Key Highlights:

• India and the UAE reviewed progress under their Strategic Defence Partnership Framework in New Delhi.
• The meeting was co-chaired by Joint Secretary (International Cooperation) Amitabh Prasad and UAE Staff Brigadier Jamal Ebrahim Mohamed Ebrahim Almar-Zooqi.
• Both nations explored deeper collaboration in defence manufacturing, innovation, and maritime security.
• India is in discussions with the UAE for the export of key military platforms, including the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile and the Akashteer air defence system.

Detailed Insights:

• The Strategic Defence Partnership Framework was formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visit to Abu Dhabi in May 2026, following a Letter of Intent signed in January 2026.
• This framework aims to facilitate joint military exercises, technology transfer, intelligence sharing, and co-development of defence hardware.
• The UAE's interest in Indian defence systems is driven by its need to enhance air and missile defence capabilities amidst regional conflicts and to safeguard critical installations and the Strait of Hormuz.
• This collaboration signifies a shift towards integrated industrial cooperation, supporting India's Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative for self-reliance in defence.
• India's defence exports have seen a significant rise, exceeding $4 billion in the financial year ending March 2026.
• The export of the BrahMos missile, a joint India-Russia venture, would require Russian approval, which is not anticipated to be an obstacle.

Key Concepts Involved:

• Strategic Defence Partnership Framework: A formal agreement outlining comprehensive bilateral cooperation in defence, encompassing industrial collaboration, technology, and security.
• BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile: A high-speed, precision-strike cruise missile jointly developed by India and Russia, capable of launch from land, sea, and air.
• Atmanirbhar Bharat: India's national policy promoting self-reliance across various sectors, including boosting indigenous defence manufacturing and reducing import dependence.
• Maritime Domain: The interconnected oceans, seas, and waterways, vital for global trade, energy security, and strategic military operations.