Both nations agree to deepen collaboration in training, industrial partnerships, maritime security, and joint exercises
The 7th meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC) was held on Thursday, with both delegations reviewing progress since the last session and charting new areas of collaboration.
The talks were co-chaired by Joint Secretary in India’s Ministry of Defence Amitabh Prasad and Staff Maj Gen Saad Mohammed H Alkathiri from the Saudi side, reported ddnews.gov.in.
The two sides expressed satisfaction that most of the key decisions taken in earlier meetings had been implemented. They also explored cooperation in emerging domains such as cyber security, information technology, disaster management, and tactical communication.
India highlighted its defence manufacturing capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative and offered training opportunities for Saudi armed forces personnel
Expanding defence ties under Strategic Partnership Council
The Indian delegation showcased advanced equipment developed under the ‘Make in India’ programme, with discussions focusing on joint production, industrial partnerships, and expanding maritime security cooperation. Both sides acknowledged the successful conduct of Navy and Army Staff Talks earlier this year and agreed to sustain such exchanges.
India and Saudi Arabia’s defence partnership continues to gain momentum. A Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation was added under the Strategic Partnership Council framework during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s April 2025 visit to Riyadh, underscoring the growing depth of bilateral defence and strategic ties.
