Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh met in New Delhi on Thursday to reaffirm their commitment to deepening bilateral defense equipment and maritime security collaboration to maintain stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
During the talks, the defense chiefs agreed to expand operational interactions between the Indian armed forces and the Japanese Self-Defense Forces.
A newly signed memorandum on maritime security cooperation establishes a framework for joint initiatives in naval design and shipbuilding, potential equipment transfers to enhance mine countermeasure capabilities for the Indian Navy, and the reciprocal use of shipyards for maintenance and repair to safeguard key sea lanes.
Koizumi informed Singh that Japan has updated its defense equipment transfer principles and operational guidelines, a policy shift that, in principle, permits the export of lethal weaponry. Singh welcomed the development and expressed optimism for closer defense ties. Both ministers agreed to expedite the transfer of Japan’s Unicorn shipborne communications antenna system to India.
On military exchanges, the leaders confirmed that fighter jets from Japan’s Air Self-Defense Force (ASDF) will participate for the first time in the upcoming Veer Guardian joint drills alongside the Indian Air Force.
Following the meeting, Koizumi addressed reporters on the growing geopolitical responsibility shared by both nations.
”The responsibilities and roles that Japan and India must play to maintain the international order are growing,” Koizumi told reporters after the meeting, apparently referring to developments concerning China.
The ministers also agreed to accelerate preparations to convene a “two-plus-two” dialogue featuring the foreign and defense ministers of both nations before the end of the year.