Arms Shipments from India to Israel Reach 2,596 Since 7 October, Reflecting Shift in Bilateral Defense Cooperation

India has been a significant buyer of Israeli military technology for years, with Israel exporting a substantial portion of its large-scale weapons systems to the country. According to data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), India accounted for approximately 29% of Israeli exports of major weapons systems between 2021 and 2025, surpassing the United States and Germany in this regard. This reflects a long-standing and robust defense relationship between the two nations.

The collaboration has been further deepened by India’s “Done in India” policy, spearheaded by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, which aims to boost local manufacturing and reduce reliance on foreign suppliers. Israeli companies have responded by establishing joint ventures, facilitating technology transfer, and opening production facilities in India. This has led to the development of systems that are now partially or fully manufactured within India, with some components being returned to Israel or exported to other countries.

Elbit Systems, for instance, operates a plant in southern India in partnership with Adani’s drone company Hermes 900. This facility produces drones used for surveillance, reconnaissance, and other military tasks. Reuters previously reported that some of the drones manufactured in India have been exported back to Israel. Such partnerships illustrate the evolving nature of the defense relationship, where India is not only a consumer but also a producer of military technology for Israel.

The defense contracts between Israel and India are estimated at approximately $8.6 billion, covering a wide range of systems including air defense, Barak missiles, precision weapons, and aviation modernization projects. These contracts have been previously reported by Aurora, highlighting the depth and breadth of the bilateral military cooperation.

Recent data indicates that India has also become a supplier of components to some leading Israeli defense companies. As of 7 October, 2,596 arms shipments have been recorded from India to Israel, marking a shift in the dynamics of the relationship. This transformation underscores India’s growing role as both a buyer and a producer of military technology within the framework of the Israel-India defense partnership.

The evolving relationship between India and Israel in the defense sector exemplifies a complex interplay of technological exchange, economic collaboration, and strategic interests. As India continues to develop its military-industrial base, its role in the global arms trade is becoming increasingly significant, with Israel playing a pivotal part in this transformation.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Russian)