India looks to UAE for defence manufacturing, Jaishankar holds high-level talks

During External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s meetings with the UAE leadership, defence cooperation emerged as a key focus area, reflecting India’s push to diversify and deepen its strategic partnerships beyond traditional allies.

From the UAE, India is primarily expecting cooperation in four defence-related areas:

First, defence manufacturing and joint production. India is encouraging the UAE to invest in its “Make in India” defence sector, particularly in areas such as drones, armoured vehicles, ammunition, naval systems and defence electronics. With the UAE actively expanding its own defence industry, India sees scope for joint ventures, technology-sharing and co-production, similar to the models it has long pursued with Russia.

Second, advanced technology and innovation. The UAE has been investing heavily in AI-driven defence systems, cyber security, space-based surveillance and unmanned platforms. India is keen to collaborate with the UAE in next-generation warfare technologies, complementing its traditional hardware-focused defence ties with Russia with more technology-oriented partnerships.

Third, maritime and regional security cooperation. Given their shared interests in the Indian Ocean Region, the Gulf, and sea lanes critical for energy trade, India expects stronger cooperation in naval exercises, intelligence-sharing, counter-piracy operations and maritime domain awareness. This aligns with India’s broader regional security strategy, where it works with Russia, the US and regional partners to maintain stability.

Fourth, logistics, maintenance and defence support. India is looking to expand logistics agreements, repair and overhaul facilities, and defence services cooperation with the UAE, which can serve as a key hub for Indian naval and air force operations in West Asia and beyond.

The defence discussions with the UAE come alongside India’s parallel defence engagements with Russia, where India continues to rely on Moscow for major platforms, spare parts, upgrades and joint production of legacy systems. However, recent talks show India’s intent to reduce over-dependence on any single partner by expanding defence ties with trusted regional players like the UAE.

Overall, India’s expectation from the UAE is investment, technology collaboration and regional security support, complementing its traditional defence relationship with Russia while fitting into India’s broader strategy of defence diversification and strategic autonomy.