India-UK Defence Collaboration

Context–

India and the United Kingdom have signed multiple agreements aimed at enhancing bilateral defence collaboration.

Key Agreements and Collaborations

• Defence Partnership–India (DP-I): Establishment of a dedicated programme office within the UK’s Ministry of Defence to serve as a one-stop hub for bilateral defence collaboration.
  • Aims to facilitate deeper cooperation and support economic growth in both countries.
• Laser Beam Riding MANPADs (LBRM): India and the UK signed a contract for the delivery of Laser Beam Riding Man Portable Air Defence Systems (MANPADS).
  • The initial supply of High Velocity Missiles (STARStreak) and launchers is set for delivery this year.
• Lightweight Multirole Missiles (LMM): Focuses on integrating Indian and British industries into the global defence supply chain.
• Advanced Short-Range Air-to-Air Missile (ASRAAM): Collaboration to establish an ASRAAM assembly and testing facility in Hyderabad.
• Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) System: A Statement of Intent was signed to design and develop an Integrated Full Electric Propulsion (IFEP) system for India’s next-generation Landing Platform Dock (LPD) fleet.
  • Both nations are working to establish India’s first maritime Land-Based Testing Facility, with a goal to deliver the LPD in water by 2030.

Here are key areas of their defence collaboration:

1. Joint Military Exercises

• Ajeya Warrior: This is a biennial joint exercise between the Indian Army and the British Army, focusing on counterterrorism and peacekeeping operations.
• Konkan: A series of naval exercises held between the Indian Navy and the Royal Navy. These drills involve naval maneuvers, anti-submarine warfare, and maritime security operations.

2. Defence Technology and Equipment

• Both nations are working together on defense technology, including co-developing and sharing defense equipment and systems. This includes advanced radar systems, fighter jets, and possibly collaborations in cyber defense and AI.
• India has expressed interest in acquiring British defense technology, especially in areas like maritime security, air defense, and communications.

3. Security Cooperation and Intelligence Sharing

• India and the UK cooperate closely on intelligence-sharing, particularly regarding counterterrorism and cyber threats. They have signed agreements to enhance counterterrorism efforts and safeguard national security.
• Cooperation also extends to combating cyber threats, with both countries sharing intelligence to prevent cyberattacks.

4. Maritime Security

• With both nations having significant interests in the Indian Ocean region, maritime security has become a priority. The UK has been supportive of India’s “SAGAR” (Security and Growth for All in the Region) initiative in the Indian Ocean.
• Both countries aim to ensure freedom of navigation and uphold international maritime law.

5. Defence Trade

• India has been a significant market for British defense products. The UK has been providing India with modern defense equipment, including helicopters, aircraft, and radar systems.
• In 2020, India and the UK signed a defence cooperation agreement aimed at enhancing the defence trade and cooperation between the two countries.

6. Strategic and Regional Partnerships

• Both India and the UK are members of various regional forums, including the Quad, which includes the United States, Australia, Japan, and India, and the Commonwealth.
• They are also collaborating in ensuring peace and stability in regions such as Afghanistan, with shared concerns over terrorism and geopolitical stability in South Asia.

7. India-UK Defence and Security Partnership Review

• In 2021, both nations agreed to elevate their bilateral relationship, including defense and security collaboration, in the “2021 India-UK Roadmap 2030” that looks toward a more strategic partnership, especially in defense technology and intelligence sharing.

CBL Practice Questions for Prelims –

Which of the following initiatives reflects India’s interest in improving regional security in the Indian Ocean, with the support of the United Kingdom?

a) SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)
b) QUAD (Quadrilateral Security Dialogue)
c) Indo-Pacific Oceanic Partnership
d) Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA)

Answer: a) SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region)

CBL Mains Practice Question –

Examine the strategic importance of these joint exercises, such as “Ajeya Warrior” and “Konkan,” in strengthening India’s defense capabilities. How do such collaborations help in improving bilateral relations?

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