Germany’s Growing Defence Ties with India

Context:

India and Germany have been working to strengthen their defense collaboration, marking significant developments in their strategic partnership.

Key Milestones:

  • Tarang Shakti Air Exercise: This multilateral air exercise between the German Luftwaffe and the Indian Air Force is a key demonstration of the growing defense ties. It highlights both nations’ commitment to enhancing military cooperation and exchanging best practices.
  • Pacific Skies 24: A joint air exercise planned by France, Germany, and Spain in the Indo-Pacific, with Tarang Shakti serving as a precursor. This marks Germany’s increasing military engagement in the region.

India’s Shifting Defence Partnerships:

  • Historical Context: Russia has traditionally been India’s primary defense partner and top arms supplier. In recent years, however, defense collaborations with the United States and France have significantly expanded.
  • Germany’s Limited Presence: Despite being one of the top five global arms suppliers, Germany has yet to establish a major foothold in India’s defense market. In 2006, India and Germany signed an agreement to deepen security and defense cooperation.
  • Opportunity Post Russia-Ukraine War: The war has redirected Russia’s focus, opening up opportunities for Germany to enhance its defense presence in India.

German-Indian Defence Collaborations:

  • Indo-German Intergovernmental Consultations (2019): This consultation reinforced the mutual commitment to strengthening defense ties.
  • Submarine Construction MoU (2023): ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS) and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. (MDL) signed an MoU for the local construction of submarines for the Indian Navy, marking a significant step in defense collaboration.

Challenges and Considerations:

  • Technology Transfer: India prioritizes domestic defense manufacturing, making technology transfer a critical factor for partnerships.
  • Interoperability: While India’s defense systems are a mix of Russian and Western technologies, experts suggest that integrating German or European systems with India’s existing platforms, particularly in the Air Force and Navy, should not be a major challenge.

Germany’s Interest in the Indo-Pacific Region:

  • China’s Aggressive Policies: Germany, as a major export nation, is concerned about China’s actions in the region. Maintaining free shipping routes and regional stability is crucial for Germany’s export-driven economy.
  • Economic Importance of the Indo-Pacific: The region contributes about 60% of global economic output, impacting the interests of nations like Germany that rely heavily on exports.
  • Geopolitical Shifts in Europe: The growing Russia-China alliance is pushing Europe, including Germany, to increase its involvement in the Indo-Pacific to safeguard its strategic interests.

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