India and Germany are set to sign a defence industrial cooperation roadmap during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Germany from April 21 to 23, 2026. This visit marks the first by an Indian defence minister to Germany in seven years. The roadmap aims to enhance bilateral military collaboration, including in emerging domains such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and drones.
Project 75I Submarine Collaboration
India’s Project 75I involves building six next-generation conventional submarines with German firm thyssenkrupp Marine Systems (tkMS) and Mumbai-based Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). These submarines are variants of the HDW Class 214 vessels equipped with air independent propulsion (AIP) systems, which extend underwater endurance and reduce detection risk. The first submarine delivery is scheduled seven years after contract signing, with subsequent deliveries at one per year. The project includes technology and design transfer to India to promote defence manufacturing self-reliance.
Defence Industrial and Military Cooperation
The cooperation roadmap focuses on strengthening defence industrial ties and military-to-military engagements. It includes plans to sign an Implementing Arrangement for Cooperation in UN Peacekeeping Operations Training. The partnership is based on shared democratic values, rule of law, and commitment to a rule-based international order.
Future Combat Air Systems and Sixth-Generation Fighter Aircraft
India is considering joining a global consortium developing sixth-generation fighter aircraft to maintain advanced air combat capabilities. The Indian Air Force is evaluating two consortia: the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP) involving the UK, Italy, and Japan, and the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) comprising France, Germany, and Spain. These programmes aim to deploy next-generation combat air capabilities by 2040, integrating operations across air, land, sea, cyber, and space domains.
Defence Forces Vision 2047
India’s Defence Forces Vision 2047 aims to transform the military into a world-class force by establishing specialised commands for cyber, space, cognitive warfare, and air defence. The vision includes creating a dedicated drone force and enhancing capabilities to address evolving technological warfare challenges by India’s Independence centenary in 2047. The Project 75I submarines will enhance India’s underwater defence capabilities. India’s strategic partnership with Germany encompasses defence, technology transfer, and multilateral military cooperation.
Last Modified: April 19, 2026