India and the United Kingdom have taken an important step in strengthening their defence partnership. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh recently co-chaired the 25th India-UK Defence Consultative Group meeting in New Delhi with his UK counterpart, Permanent Under Secretary for Defence Jeremy Pocklington. This was Pocklington’s first visit to India in his current position.
During their discussions, both sides reviewed the growing defence industrial ties, emphasizing research and development as outlined in the India-UK Vision 2035 and the Ten Year Defence Industrial Roadmap. They also agreed to enhance military cooperation through joint exercises, training, and capacity building for their armed forces.
A crucial topic during the talks was maritime security in the Indo-Pacific, particularly in response to China’s increasing assertiveness in the area. Both nations recognized the progress made through the establishment of the Regional Maritime Security Centre of Excellence as part of the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.
Before the meeting, Pocklington paid his respects at the National War Memorial, honoring those who gave their lives for their country. He also visited the Gandhi Smriti Museum and the National Defence College in New Delhi, where he held discussions with Chief of Defence Staff General Raja Subramani.
The defence relationship between India and the UK has significantly developed over the years, with a structured partnership involving joint exercises, naval visits, and air force exchanges that enhance collaboration between their militaries. A major milestone was reached last July when Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to London resulted in the signing of the ten-year Defence Industrial Roadmap, committing both nations to co-develop and co-produce advanced defence technologies aligned with India’s push for self-reliance.
This partnership is supported by mechanisms like the 2+2 Dialogue, Executive Steering Groups across the armed services, and Defence Equipment Sub-Groups, ensuring ongoing discussions about technology transfer and procurement. The relationship is further strengthened by the Free Trade Agreement between India and the UK concluded last year.
Additionally, both sides identified a broader range of priorities, including cooperation in advanced technologies such as electric propulsion and jet engine core technologies, as well as collaboration on counter-terrorism, cyber resilience, and irregular migration. With the Defence Industrial Roadmap firmly established, the next decade is expected to witness the joint development of advanced defence systems, enhancing the UK’s role in the Indo-Pacific security landscape while supporting India’s strategic autonomy.
