One country far outpaces all others in procurements.
By Hezy Laing
Israel’s defense industry is booming, known for its battle-tested, high-tech systems, rapid delivery, and innovation in missile defense, drones, cyber warfare, and electronic systems.
But one country far outpaces all others in procurements: India, accounting for about 37% of Israeli defense sales.
The defense relationship has grown significantly since formal diplomatic ties were established in 1992, though Israel had already provided military support during India’s wars with Pakistan in 1965, 1971, and 1999.
These early interactions laid the foundation for a strong partnership.
India faces persistent security challenges—border tensions with China and Pakistan, terrorism, and the need to modernize its military. Israel offers advanced solutions from companies like Rafael, Elbit Systems, and Israel Aerospace Industries.
Cooperation includes missile defense, drones, cyber capabilities, and electronic systems, supported by political goodwill, shared democratic values, and aligned strategic interests such as counterterrorism and maritime security.
Notable Israeli systems supplied to India include:
Barak-8 Missile System – A medium-range surface-to-air missile developed jointly by Israel Aerospace Industries and India’s DRDO, used by the Navy and Air Force.
Heron Mk2 and Hermes-900 Drones – Long-endurance UAVs for surveillance and reconnaissance, with local production of the Hermes-900 as the Drishti-10 Starliner.
Harpy and SkyStriker Loitering Munitions – “Suicide drones” for neutralizing radar and other targets.
Radar and Electronic Warfare Systems – Advanced detection and countermeasure capabilities across land, sea, and air.
Spike Anti-Tank Guided Missiles – Fire-and-forget systems for precision strikes against armored targets.
Even during regional conflicts, such as the war in Gaza, Israeli exports to India have continued without disruption.
The relationship now extends beyond procurement to joint development, technology transfer, and co-production in India—making it one of the most strategic defense partnerships in the world.
