Deployment of Indian Instructors to RAF Valley

As part of this new initiative, the IAF will assign three Qualified Flight Instructors (QFIs) to Royal Air Force (RAF) Valley, the primary training base for fast jet pilots in the UK. This represents a significant milestone, as it will be the first instance of Indian instructors providing training to British fast jet pilots at this facility. The initial deployment is expected to last for two years, marking a step forward in international military cooperation.

Previous Collaborations Enhancing Training Opportunities

This new agreement comes shortly after the historic deployment of an Indian Air Force officer as a flight instructor at the Royal Air Force College Cranwell earlier this year. The college plays a pivotal role in training upcoming RAF officers, and Indian representation at this institution now complements the existing collaborations at all three British military academies. This signifies the expanding presence of Indian military instructors within the UK educational framework.

Joint Efforts to Strengthen Defence Cooperation

The recent agreement illustrates the ongoing efforts by both India and the UK to fortify their military training engagement and enhance defence cooperation across various domains. This collaboration is set against the backdrop of a longstanding relationship that both nations share, underpinned by mutual strategic interests and shared democratic values.

Future Prospects for Military Engagement

As the IAF prepares to commence this training initiative, the focus will be on refining skills among British pilots while simultaneously fostering a robust exchange of knowledge and best practices. The inclusion of Indian QFIs in British training programs is anticipated to provide significant benefits in terms of expertise and operational insights, further strengthening the ties between the air forces of both nations.

Significance of the Defence Pact

This defence pact is a clear indication of the evolving military landscape and the necessity for nations to collaborate on training and preparedness. As international security challenges continue to gain prominence, such partnerships are deemed essential for ensuring that air power capabilities are maintained and enhanced through shared learning and training opportunities.

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Details of the Agreement

The pact was signed by Somalia’s Defence Minister Ahmed Moallim Fiqi and Saudi Defence Minister Prince Khalid bin Salman during a military exhibition in Riyadh. The Somali Defence Ministry noted that the agreement aims to bolster defence and military collaboration, encompassing various mutual interests. However, specific details regarding the contents of the pact remain limited. It is reported that the agreement is intended to focus on training, technical assistance, and defence support as Somalia works to enhance the capabilities of its National Armed Forces.

Context of the Military Cooperation

The defence agreement comes after Israel’s recent recognition of Somaliland, a self-declared republic that separated from Somalia in 1991, an action that Somalia’s government has deemed an act of interference that threatens regional stability. Somalia has indicated that its need for enhanced defence partnerships is partly driven by concerns over security in the Red Sea and diplomatic engagements related to Somaliland.

Regional Shifts and International Involvement

The context of these developments includes a growing Emirati influence in Somaliland, where the Emirati company DP World has invested in the Berbera port, causing tensions with the Somali federal government. Somalia has recently annulled its defence agreements with the UAE, aligning itself instead with allies that recognize its sovereignty and territorial integrity. This shift is critical given the ongoing political tensions in the region.

Fractured Alliances and Broader Implications

The relationship between Saudi Arabia and the UAE, once strong allies, has recently become strained over various regional conflicts, particularly in Yemen and Sudan. Their alliance has shown signs of fracture, affecting geopolitical dynamics in the region. The Somali administration has characterized the new agreement with Saudi Arabia as a framework for collaboration rather than a mutual defence treaty, with future implementation likely to involve further arrangements.

Saudi Military Presence in the Region

Saudi Arabia continues to be a significant player in regional security, having previously entered a defence agreement with Pakistan last year. By aligning with Somalia through this new agreement, Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a central actor in the Horn of Africa, particularly at a time when sovereignty disputes and international involvement are under close examination.

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Defence Secretary Hegseth described the pact as a “cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence,” adding that the “defence ties have never been stronger.” The pact aims to create a new era of collaboration, encompassing military coordination, information sharing, technology transfer, and joint exercises.​

Strengthening Strategic Convergence and Regional Security

The new 10-year framework provides a clear policy roadmap for the India-US defence relationship for the coming decade. It emphasises deepening coordination in key areas such as intelligence sharing, technological cooperation, capacity building, and defence industrial collaboration. Both countries see defence as a fundamental pillar in their broader bilateral ties. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh noted that the agreement signals “growing strategic convergence” between India and the United States. The pact also highlights the shared goal of ensuring a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region, a crucial area of strategic interest for both countries amid rising regional challenges. The framework supports greater interoperability between the armed forces of India and the US, allowing joint military exercises and operations to be conducted seamlessly.​

The agreement also underscores cooperation with like-minded partners in the Indo-Pacific region to address shared security concerns, especially in response to China’s expanding ambitions. The US-India defence relationship thus serves as a key driver for regional security architecture and stability, enhancing mutual trust and signalling to the world the strength of this strategic partnership.​

Boosting Defence Manufacturing and Technological Innovation

Beyond military exercises and strategic defence coordination, a vital aspect of the 10-year pact is its focus on technological collaboration and indigenous defence manufacturing. The pact bolsters India’s “Make in India” initiative by promoting joint ventures, research and development, and sharing of advanced defence technologies. This framework paves the way for more defence industrial supply chain integration, thereby advancing India’s goal of becoming self-reliant in critical defence sectors.

The agreement reflects a decade-long journey of growing defence ties, building on earlier frameworks signed in 2015. It aims to accelerate capacity building for both countries by sharing best practices, fostering innovation, and encouraging investments in defence technology. Both sides have committed to ongoing dialogue and collaboration to keep the agreement dynamic and responsive to evolving geopolitical and technological landscapes.​

With joint military drills, enhanced information sharing, and cooperative defence industrial projects, this framework sets a new benchmark for bilateral military relations. It also ensures that both India and the United States remain prepared to face contemporary security challenges together, contributing strongly to peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific.

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This new framework will guide bilateral defence cooperation from 2025 to 2035, building on the progress made under previous agreements and the strategic goals set out in the February 2025 joint statement by President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agreement aims to deepen military collaboration, enhance defence sales, and foster greater industrial cooperation between the two countries.

Industrial Cooperation

A major focus of recent discussions has been on improving defence industrial cooperation, particularly in the area of indigenous manufacturing. India has been pushing for the early finalisation of a joint production agreement between Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) and GE Aerospace for the F414 jet engines, which are crucial for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft programme. Delays in the delivery of GE’s F404 engines have already impacted HAL’s ability to meet deadlines for the Indian Air Force, making this collaboration even more important for India’s “Make in India” initiative and its goal of reducing dependence on imports.

The upcoming framework is also expected to streamline the procurement of defence goods and services, making it easier and more efficient for both countries to acquire critical military equipment. There are plans to expand technology cooperation in areas such as aerospace, maritime security, and air defence. The United States has indicated its willingness to review arms transfer regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), to facilitate smoother technology sharing and maintenance protocols with India.

The agreement is likely to include new initiatives for joint production and procurement, such as the co-development of advanced weapon systems like Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and Stryker combat vehicles, as well as the potential acquisition of additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to strengthen India’s surveillance capabilities in the Indian Ocean region.

Both sides have reiterated their commitment to a robust and dynamic defence partnership, recognising India’s role as a key US defence partner in South Asia. The framework is being described as the ‘US-India Major Defence Partnership in the 21st Century’ and is expected to play a pivotal role in addressing regional security challenges, enhancing trust, and building joint capabilities between the two democracies.

The signing of this decade-long pact is seen as a clear signal of the deepening trust and cooperation between India and the US, with both nations looking to secure their interests in an increasingly complex global security environment. The agreement is set to not only boost India’s defence manufacturing sector but also ensure that both countries remain closely aligned in their strategic and security objectives for the coming decade.

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The Defence Pact

The two countries signed a major agreement to formalise defence and security ties between them. In the meeting, PM Modi mentioned the unlawful elements engaging in anti-India activities in NZ.

The leaders held extensive discussions aimed at enhancing bilateral cooperation, particularly in trade, defence, education, and agriculture.

PM Modi made an announcement that both nations have agreed to strengthen their defence and security partnership, with a roadmap set to be developed for collaboration in the defence industry sector.

PM Modi also reaffirmed the stance of both countries against terrorism saying, “Whether it is the terror attack on Christ Church on March 15, 2019, or Mumbai 26/11, terrorism is unacceptable in every manner. Strict action is necessary against terror perpetrators. We will work together against terrorist, separatist and extremist elements. We have shared our concern regarding anti-India activities in New Zealand. We are sure we will keep getting the New Zealand government’s assistance against these illegal activities.”

Cultural Ties

PM Modi welcomed PM Luxon and his delegation acknowledging his long-standing connection with India. He mentioned his recent Holi celebrations in Auckland and said, “It is a matter of happiness for us that a young and energetic leader like him is the chief guest at Raisina Dialogue this year. Today, we had detailed discussions over various aspects of our bilateral relations. We have decided to give our defence and security ties a strong and strategic form”.

Discussing migration issues, PM Modi said, “Work will be done by India and New Zealand to formulate an agreement to deal with the issue of illegal migration.”

Prime Minister Narendra Modi also highlighted shared commitments in the Indo-Pacific, saying, “We both support a free, open, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific. We believe in the policy of development, not expansionism. We welcome New Zealand on joining the Indo-Pacific Ocean Initiative.”

Sports Ties

Prime Minister Modi also specified the strong sports ties between India and New Zealand. “Whether it is cricket, hockey or mountaineering, both countries have old relations in sports. We have emphasised collaboration in sports coaching, exchange of players, sports science, psychology, medicine. We have also decided to celebrate 100 years of sports relationship between both the countries in 2026. We have decided to work on an agreement to simplify the mobility of skilled workers and address the issue of illegal migration,” he said.

The meeting focused on strengthening bilateral ties, with discussions on economic cooperation, trade expansion, and regional security. Negotiations for a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have been announced.

New Zealand PM Luxon praised India’s hospitality and highlighted his large delegation of business and community leaders, emphasising trade’s potential benefits.

After arriving in New Delhi on Sunday, Luxon met external affairs minister Jaishankar, who welcomed his commitment to stronger ties.

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