By Ashwin Honawar
The strategic partnership between India and Israel, particularly in defense and security, has strengthened significantly over the past decades. Both nations have faced persistent threats from terrorism and have mutual interests in maintaining regional stability. This article explores why India should support Israel in its fight against terror, reflecting on past cooperation and the benefits of continued alliance in defense.
Historical Context of Cooperation
India-Israel relations, especially in defense, began to take shape in the early 1990s when India started procuring defense equipment from Israel. The relationship was solidified post the 1998 nuclear tests and the Kargil conflict in 1999, during which Israel supported India by supplying crucial military equipment and technology, unlike many Western nations that had imposed sanctions on India. This support not only helped India in immediate terms but also boosted Israel’s credibility as a reliable arms supplier.
Current Defense Ties and Collaborations
The defense cooperation between the two countries has evolved into a comprehensive partnership encompassing a wide array of sectors. Joint ventures and collaborations have been established, particularly in high-technology fields such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), missile defense systems, and surveillance technologies. India and Israel have jointly developed several cutting-edge defense technologies, including radars and electronic warfare systems. Both nations have benefited from this exchange, with Israel gaining access to one of the largest defense markets globally and India enhancing its military capabilities with advanced technologies.
Strategic Alignment and Mutual Benefits
The strategic alignment between India and Israel is driven by their shared concerns over regional security and terrorism. India’s support for Israel in its fight against terrorism is not merely a reciprocation of past assistance but a strategic alignment of interests. Israel’s expertise in counter-terrorism can significantly aid India’s own security strategies. Moreover, Israel has demonstrated its reliability as a partner during critical times, such as during the Kargil conflict and the subsequent periods of tension with neighboring countries.
Future Prospects and Opportunities
Looking ahead, India and Israel are working on a 10-year roadmap for defense cooperation, aiming to expand their collaboration into new areas like futuristic defense technologies and joint manufacturing under India’s Make-in-India initiative. This roadmap will likely further strengthen the strategic partnership, making it more resilient and broad-based.
Conclusion
India’s support for Israel in combating terrorism aligns with its strategic interests and principles of mutual respect and benefit in international relations. The history of collaboration, coupled with ongoing and future partnerships, underscores the importance of a strong bilateral relationship that enhances the defense capabilities of both nations and contributes to regional and global stability. By continuing to support Israel, India not only acknowledges a reliable partnership but also secures advancements in military and security realms crucial for its own strategic needs.
