India is preparing to sharply expand its military strength by acquiring advanced defence systems from Israel. The move comes ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s important visit, which is expected to further deepen strategic defence ties between the two countries.
Building a stronger air defence shield
Indian officials say the country wants to create an “impregnable” multi-layered air defence system. This shield would be designed to stop missiles, drones, and other aerial threats, particularly those originating from Pakistan.
To achieve this, India is looking at several advanced Israeli technologies. These include armed drones, precision-guided long-range missiles, and modern laser-based interception systems.
One of the most significant systems under consideration is Israel’s Iron Beam. Iron Beam uses high-energy laser beams to destroy incoming rockets, mortars, and drones. It is known for operating at a much lower cost per interception compared to traditional missile systems.
India’s own Defence Research and Development Organisation has developed a 30-kilowatt laser weapon prototype. However, Iron Beam is more powerful and already operational. It offers quicker reaction times and stronger interception ability. Officials believe it could fill gaps in India’s current air defence network that were exposed during recent military tensions.
New defence pact expected
The defence expansion is likely to be formalised during Modi’s two-day visit to Israel. Both sides are expected to sign a new memorandum of understanding. This agreement would increase military cooperation, technology transfer, and joint development of next-generation weapons.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu underlined the strengthening partnership. He said, “The fabric of this relationship has grown tighter, and he is coming here so that we can tighten it further through a series of decisions related to strengthening cooperation between our govts and countries.”
He further stated, “We will create an entire system, essentially a ‘hexagon’ of alliances around or within the Middle East.”
Impact of Operation Sindoor
India’s interest in Israeli systems has grown after their use during Operation Sindoor. During that mission, Indian forces deployed several Israeli-made weapons. These included Rampage air-to-surface missiles, Harpy loitering munitions, and Harop kamikaze drones. They were used to strike terror camps and military installations.
The success of these weapons reinforced confidence in Israeli defence technology. As a result, India accelerated plans to expand military integration with Israel.
Parallel indigenous programme
At the same time, India is developing its own multi-layered air defence project called Sudarshan Chakra. The goal is to protect major cities and key strategic sites from aerial attacks by 2035. The programme aims to combine advanced missile systems, artificial intelligence, sensor networks, and cyber defence tools into a single integrated shield.
Israel has become one of India’s largest defence suppliers. Reports suggest that arms agreements between the two nations could reach $8.6 billion in 2026 alone. These deals include SPICE-1000 precision-guided bombs, Rampage missiles with a 250 km range, Air Lora ballistic missiles, and the IceBreaker missile system, which can hit targets up to 300 km away.
Strengthening defence for modern warfare
As drone warfare and long-range missile attacks become more advanced, India’s planned purchases from Israel are seen as a key step in modernising its defence capabilities. The collaboration could significantly enhance India’s ability to respond quickly and effectively to emerging aerial threats.