India and Japan Deepen Defence Cooperation at Eighth Policy Dialogue in Tokyo

India and Japan reaffirmed their commitment to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific during the eighth India–Japan Defence Policy Dialogue held in Tokyo on July 13, 2026. The meeting reviewed the expanding defence partnership between the two countries and identified new areas for practical cooperation in technology, maritime security and emerging strategic domains.

The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, while Japan was represented by Vice Minister of Defence for International Affairs Kano Koji. The two sides assessed the progress achieved since the previous dialogue and agreed to strengthen cooperation under the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership.

The discussions covered regional and global security developments, with both delegations exchanging views on matters of shared strategic interest. India and Japan highlighted their growing convergence on developments in the Indo-Pacific and emphasised the importance of international law, freedom of navigation and a stable regional security architecture.

Military and Maritime Cooperation Reviewed

The dialogue reviewed the full range of bilateral defence engagements, including exchanges between the armed forces, coordination between joint headquarters, maritime cooperation and joint military exercises.

India and Japan have steadily expanded interaction among their military services through exercises, professional exchanges and institutional dialogue. These engagements are aimed at improving interoperability, sharing operational experience and strengthening coordination in the maritime domain.

Maritime security remained a central component of the discussions. Both countries have a strong interest in protecting sea lanes, ensuring the secure movement of trade and supporting stability across the Indian and Pacific Oceans.

The two sides also examined opportunities for capacity building and greater engagement between their defence institutions.

Focus on Defence Technology and Industrial Collaboration

India and Japan discussed ways to advance cooperation in defence equipment, maritime technology and industrial collaboration.

The dialogue placed particular emphasis on technological innovation and the possibility of creating stronger links between the defence industries of both countries. Such cooperation could include joint research, co-development, manufacturing partnerships and the integration of advanced systems.

India’s growing defence manufacturing ecosystem and Japan’s expertise in high-technology engineering provide a strong foundation for deeper industrial engagement. Greater collaboration could support the development of advanced maritime, surveillance, communication and dual-use technologies.

Both sides agreed to continue examining projects that can translate political understanding into tangible defence capabilities.

Cyber Security and Space Emerge as Priority Areas

The delegations identified cyber security and space as important areas for future cooperation.

Modern military operations increasingly depend on secure digital infrastructure, satellite communication, space-based surveillance and resilient information networks. India and Japan expressed interest in expanding exchanges in these fields and developing mechanisms to address emerging security challenges.

Cooperation in cyber and space domains could include information sharing, training, technical exchanges and joint efforts to protect critical defence infrastructure.

These discussions reflect the evolving character of the India–Japan security partnership, which is expanding beyond conventional military engagement into advanced strategic technologies.

Preparations for Ministerial Engagements

The two countries also discussed possible outcomes for forthcoming ministerial-level visits, including the next India–Japan 2+2 Foreign and Defence Ministers’ Dialogue expected later in 2026.

Regular high-level meetings have become an important feature of the bilateral defence relationship. India and Japan emphasised the value of maintaining these institutional mechanisms to provide direction to military cooperation, defence technology partnerships and regional security coordination.

The proposed ministerial engagements are expected to review ongoing initiatives and identify projects capable of strengthening operational and industrial cooperation.

Defence Secretary Meets Japanese Defence Minister

Earlier in the day, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh met Japanese Minister of Defence Shinjiro Koizumi.

During the meeting, the Defence Secretary conveyed greetings from Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and presented an invitation for the Japanese Defence Minister to visit India at the earliest suitable opportunity.

The meeting reaffirmed the growing momentum of the India–Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership and highlighted the importance attached by both governments to sustained defence engagement.

Kano Koji reiterated Japan’s commitment to expanding defence ties with India across priority sectors, while the Indian side welcomed Japan’s continued participation in bilateral and multilateral security cooperation.

Tribute at Japan Self-Defense Forces Memorial

The Defence Secretary began his official visit by laying a wreath at the Self-Defense Forces Memorial Stone in Tokyo.

The ceremony honoured members of the Japan Self-Defense Forces who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of their country. The gesture reflected the mutual respect that underpins the defence relationship between India and Japan.

A Stronger Partnership for Indo-Pacific Stability

The eighth Defence Policy Dialogue demonstrated the increasing strategic depth of India–Japan defence relations.

The partnership now encompasses military exercises, maritime security, institutional exchanges, defence technology, industrial cooperation, cyber security and space. This widening engagement reflects the shared interests of two major Indo-Pacific democracies seeking peace, stability and secure maritime connectivity.

India and Japan agreed to continue working closely across regional and global security forums while developing practical initiatives capable of strengthening their defence partnership.

The dialogue in Tokyo marked another step towards a more coordinated and technology-driven relationship, supported by mutual trust, common strategic interests and a shared vision for the Indo-Pacific.

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Source: PIB

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