PM Modi-Netanyahu messaging sets tone for expanding India–Israel defence ties

Prime Minister Narendra Modi will pay a two-day visit to Israel from February 25-26 amid efforts to deepen strategic ties and expand defence cooperation.

The visit was confirmed after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and PM Modi exchanged messages on social media platform X.

“This morning, at the opening of our Cabinet meeting, I spoke about the historic visit of my dear friend, Prime Minister @narendramodi, to Israel this coming Wednesday,” Netanyahu posted, describing India and Israel as “partners in innovation, security, and a shared strategic vision.”

He said the two countries were building “an axis of nations committed to stability and progress” and that cooperation ranging from artificial intelligence to regional security continued to scale new heights.

Responding to the Israeli leader, PM Modi said India deeply values its enduring friendship with Israel, built on trust, innovation and a shared commitment to peace and progress.

“I fully agree with you on the bond between India and Israel as well as the diverse nature of our bilateral relations… Looking forward to our discussions during my upcoming Israel visit,” he said.

The visit comes amid efforts by both countries to further expand defence and security collaboration.

What India wants

While the two sides are expected to sign a memorandum of understanding on security cooperation during Modi’s visit, no major defence contracts are likely to be announced, according to the report.

India is exploring joint development of anti-ballistic missile defence systems and is also looking to acquire long-range missiles and loitering munitions, the report said.

Bilateral defence cooperation is estimated to be worth around USD 10 billion in the coming years.

Israel is regarded as a global leader in missile defence systems, while India has increasingly turned to Israeli technology for precision weapons and air defence as it modernises its military.