India and Italy have agreed to deepen cooperation in defence manufacturing, with a focus on technology and armament production. This was discussed during the 11th India-Italy Joint Defence Committee meeting held in Rome from April 14–15, 2025. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh co-chaired the meeting with Luisa Riccardi, Secretary General of Defence, Italy.
The discussions covered a range of defence and industrial cooperation topics, including maritime collaboration and information-sharing frameworks, particularly through the Trans Regional Maritime Network. Regional security issues, including developments in the Red Sea and Western Indian Ocean, were also addressed.
A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM) and the Federation of Italian Companies for Aerospace, Defence and Security (AIAD). The agreement aims to facilitate business-to-business engagement and promote collaboration between Indian and Italian defence manufacturers.
Speaking at the India-Italy Defence Industry Roundtable, Rajesh Kumar Singh said, “The Indian defence industry has witnessed significant changes, particularly in the past few years through progressive reforms. These reforms have been marked by the creation of a conducive environment for the growth of the Indian Industry through transparency, predictability and Ease of Doing Business.”
A delegation from the Ministry of Defence, including senior officials from various departments and service headquarters, accompanied the Defence Secretary. An industry delegation from SIDM also participated to strengthen ties with Italian counterparts in defence production and innovation.