Defence Minister Rajnath Singh engaged in a telephonic conversation with German Federal Minister of Defence Mr. Boris Pistorius to review ongoing defence cooperation activities on 8 October 2024. The discussion encompassed various exercises in the air and maritime domains, highlighting the collaborative efforts between the two nations.
During their conversation, the ministers explored avenues to bolster defence industrial collaboration and enhance supply chain resilience. They also expressed their intent to meet in the near future to solidify defence engagements and joint projects, aiming to establish defence as a key pillar of the India-Germany bilateral relationship.
This dialogue comes ahead of German Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s scheduled visit for inter-governmental consultations later this month, which coincides with the anticipated announcement of bids for the Indian Navy’s multi-billion-dollar project to acquire six conventional submarines. German company TKMS (Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems) is competing against Spain’s Navantia for this significant contract.
Additionally, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez is expected to visit India in November, further indicating the growing focus on defence cooperation in the region. The developments reflect a concerted effort by both countries to deepen their strategic partnership in defence and security.
