News Brief:
India and Japan have agreed to deepen defense industry cooperation, including AI, automation, and next-gen fighter jet development, during high-level talks in New Delhi. The two Quad allies also pledged stronger maritime, cyber, and space collaboration, signaling a strategic counterbalance in the Indo-Pacific.
Full Article:
India and Japan Strengthen Defense and Maritime Cooperation Amid Rising Indo-Pacific Tensions
New Delhi, – India and Japan on Monday announced plans to enhance defense industrial collaboration and maritime security ties during a high-level meeting between their defense ministers in New Delhi.
Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh hosted his Japanese counterpart, Gen. Nakatani, for strategic talks aimed at expanding bilateral defense partnerships. According to an official statement, the two nations agreed to:
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Boost industry cooperation, including joint ventures in AI, automation, and unmanned systems.
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Expand collaboration in emerging domains like cybersecurity and space technology.
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Strengthen maritime security efforts, adding "new dimensions" to their existing partnership.
The discussions also covered Japan’s invitation for India to join the Global Combat Air Program (GCAP)—a trilateral initiative with the UK and Italy to develop a next-generation fighter jet by 2035.
Quad Synergy & Indo-Pacific Strategy
As key members of the Quad alliance (with the US and Australia), India and Japan are deepening military coordination to counterbalance China’s growing influence. The ministers reviewed progress under their Special Strategic and Global Partnership, with plans to establish a high-level military dialogue body for smoother defense coordination.
Japan’s Regional Outreach
Gen. Nakatani’s four-day South Asia tour included a stop in Sri Lanka, where he agreed to bolster defense ties with Colombo—a move seen as reinforcing Japan’s strategic footprint in the Indian Ocean.
Why It Matters:
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Signals faster tech-sharing between two of Asia’s top democracies.
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Strengthens the Quad’s deterrence capabilities amid China’s military expansion.
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Positions India as a critical partner in Japan’s next-gen defense projects.
This partnership marks a significant step in shaping a secure and tech-driven Indo-Pacific, with eyes on future joint ventures in advanced warfare systems.