In a significant step towards enhancing defence cooperation, the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) signed two key Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) with the Emirates Defence Companies Council (EDCC) and EDGE Group UAE. This notable development occurred during the inaugural India-UAE Defence Industry Partnership Forum, held in Abu Dhabi on September 18, 2024.

The forum, organised by the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi under the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, in collaboration with the UAE Ministry of Defence, brought together leading defence industries from both nations. This event marks a major milestone in the growing strategic partnership between India and the United Arab Emirates.

Indian Ambassador to the UAE, Sunjay Sudhir, delivered the opening address, highlighting the vast potential of India-UAE defence cooperation. He emphasised that the seminar marks "the beginning of a long journey ahead" and pointed to the deep historical relationship between the two countries, which has evolved into a comprehensive economic partnership.

Ms. Mona Al Ahmed Al Jaber, Chairperson of the Emirates Defence Companies Council, noted, “We enable local defence companies to connect with global counterparts, fostering collaboration and technological advancement.” She also underscored the importance of showcasing the capabilities of UAE defence companies, contributing to both economic growth and the nation’s global standing. Ms. Mudita Mishra, Deputy Director General of the Ministry of Defence, Government of India, echoed these views, discussing the potential for joint production and technology transfer between the two nations.

The Indian delegation comprised officials from the Department of Defence Production and representatives from over 25 private and public sector companies, showcasing India’s diverse and growing defence manufacturing capabilities. During the meeting, Indian representatives presented various government initiatives designed to strengthen the defence manufacturing ecosystem and foster international cooperation, particularly with the UAE.

Business-to-business discussions focused on identifying common areas of interest for collaboration. High-level officials from both sides, including Brig. General Engineer Ahmad Bin Adi, Defence Industry Director of the UAE Ministry of Defence, and other prominent figures such as Muammar Abdulla Abushaheb (CEO of Tawazun Executive Council) and Hamad Al Marar (MD & CEO of EDGE Group), participated in the event.

The MoUs signed by SIDM with EDCC and EDGE Group represent a major step in advancing defence cooperation. The agreements will likely focus on key areas such as joint development of unmanned systems, co-production of next-generation platforms, and exploration of critical minerals in third countries.

This strengthened partnership also aligns with broader regional and global strategic goals, including India’s involvement in the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor. Since 2014, India and the UAE have seen significant growth in their defence relationship, underpinned by high-level exchanges, joint exercises, and strategic dialogues. Existing agreements like the 2003 MoU on Defence Cooperation and the 2011 Security Cooperation Agreement have provided a strong foundation for further collaboration.

Looking ahead, both nations are expected to collaborate on the design and development of UAVs and missiles, engage in deep-tech research, and co-develop existing defence technologies. India’s initiatives to boost defence manufacturing, including FDI liberalization and the creation of defence corridors, were also highlighted as part of the discussions.

This evolving partnership between India and the UAE is poised to transform the defence industries of both countries, with potential impacts that could reshape international defence collaborations and contribute to global peace and stability.

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