NEW DELHI: India’s Defence Secretary, Rajesh Kumar Singh, concluded a two-day visit to London on April 17, where he co-chaired the 24th India-UK Defence Consultative Group (DCG) meeting alongside Mr. David Williams, the UK’s Permanent Under Secretary of State for Defence.
This high-level dialogue underscored the commitment of both nations to bolster defence cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the Roadmap to 2030.
The DCG meeting focused on reviewing the evolving regional and global security landscape. Both sides reaffirmed their dedication to enhancing military cooperation, with particular emphasis on expanding tri-service engagements and advancing defence capability collaboration.
Discussions also highlighted the importance of joint innovation in niche defence technologies to modernize armed forces in both countries.
A significant aspect of the visit was the India-UK Defence Industry Roundtable, organized by the UK India Business Council. In his keynote address, Defence Secretary Singh emphasized the growing capabilities of Indian start-ups in key defence domains such as naval systems, drones, surveillance, defence space, and aviation.
He encouraged UK companies to explore partnerships with these innovators, noting their potential to deliver cost-effective and cutting-edge solutions.
Furthermore, both nations are working closely to develop an Industrial Cooperation Roadmap to guide future industry engagement.
India has invited UK firms to invest in its dedicated Defence Corridors in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, offering state-level incentives and a rapidly evolving defence manufacturing ecosystem.
The discussions also touched upon the UK’s HMS Prince of Wales’ upcoming deployment to the Indo-Pacific, which is expected to advance the India-UK defence partnership.
This move aligns with the shared vision of both countries to enhance maritime cooperation and ensure a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific region.
With a focus on strategic dialogue, industrial collaboration, and joint innovation, India and the UK can enhance their defence capabilities and contribute to regional and global security.
