India Eyes Israeli Tech for Multi-Layered Defence Shield
In a strategic move to bolster its national security, India is actively pursuing advanced defence technologies from Israel. The focus is on acquiring cutting-edge drones, long-range missiles, and laser-based defence systems. This initiative aims to integrate these technologies into India's security infrastructure, creating what officials describe as an "impregnable" multi-layered shield. The shield is designed to effectively counter potential future attacks from Pakistan, including threats from missiles, drones, and airstrikes.
Laser Defence Systems: A Key Component
While India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has developed a 30-kW high-energy laser-based Directed Energy Weapon (DEW) known as the Mk-II(A) system, Israel has already begun deploying its more advanced 'Iron Beam' system. Iron Beam is a 100kW-class high-energy laser weapon that complements Israel's Iron Dome missile shield. This system is capable of intercepting drones, rockets, and mortars at a remarkably low cost of only a few dollars per shot, making it a highly efficient defence tool.
PM Modi's Upcoming Visit to Israel
These defence plans are expected to be formalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's two-day visit to Israel, which begins on Wednesday. This marks Modi's second trip to Israel since 2017. During the visit, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on security cooperation is anticipated to be signed. Beyond mere defence purchases, India is emphasizing the transfer of advanced weapon technologies, aiming for deeper collaboration in defence innovation and production.
On Sunday, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu highlighted the significance of Modi's visit. He stated, "PM Modi will deliver a speech in the Knesset. The fabric of this relationship has grown tighter, and he is coming here so that we can tighten it further through a series of decisions related to strengthening cooperation between our governments and countries. This includes economic, diplomatic and security cooperation." Netanyahu also hinted at the formation of a broader security alliance, describing it as a 'hexagon' of alliances involving India, Arab nations, African nations, Mediterranean nations like Greece and Cyprus, and other Asian countries.
India's Indigenous Defence Initiatives
India is concurrently developing its own indigenous, multi-layered air defence system named 'Sudarshan Chakra'. This system is aimed at protecting cities and vital installations from missile and drone threats by 2035. To accelerate this project, India is collaborating with Israel to incorporate technologies similar to Israel's Iron Dome, Arrow, and David's Sling systems. The initiative will integrate Barak-8 MR-SAM/LR-SAM with artificial intelligence, advanced sensors, and cyber-defence systems, enhancing overall defence capabilities.
Historical Context and Future Deals
The new MoU follows a previous agreement signed last November during Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh's visit to Israel. Both sides had decided to boost defence ties through joint development and co-production of advanced technologies. Historically, India has utilized Israeli weapons effectively, such as during Operation Sindoor last year, where Rampage missiles, Harpy (a loitering munition known as a Kamikaze drone), and Harop kamikaze loitering munitions were deployed against Pakistan's terror targets and military assets.
According to a Forbes India report, Israel has agreed to arms deals worth $8.6 billion with India in 2026, positioning Israel as India's biggest weapons supplier after France. These deals include SPICE 1000 precision guidance bombs manufactured by Rafael, Rampage air-to-surface missiles with a 250 km range, Air Lora air-launched ballistic missiles, and the IceBreaker missile system with a 300 km range. This substantial investment underscores the deepening defence partnership between the two nations.
