New Delhi: The 7th meeting of the India-Saudi Arabia Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC) was held in New Delhi on August 28, 2025. The session was co-chaired by Joint Secretary Shri Amitabh Prasad representing India and Staff Major General Saad Mohammed H Alkathiri from Saudi Arabia. Both sides reiterated their commitment to further enhancing bilateral defence ties and expressed satisfaction with the successful implementation of most decisions from the previous JCDC meeting.
Focus on Expanding Defence Cooperation
In line with their goal to strengthen defence collaboration, the two countries held detailed discussions across multiple domains, including training cooperation, industrial partnerships, maritime security, and joint military exercises. The talks analyzed respective training capabilities and needs, with India offering to provide specialized training support to the Saudi Armed Forces.
Emphasis on Emerging Domains and Industrial Collaboration
The delegations explored cooperation in emerging fields such as cyber security, information technology, disaster management, and tactical communication. India highlighted its growing defence manufacturing capabilities and showcased advanced Made-in-India equipment. Both sides explored opportunities for joint manufacturing and co-development of defence technologies.
Institutionalizing Strategic Ties
This meeting follows the establishment of a Ministerial Committee on Defence Cooperation under the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council, formed during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Saudi Arabia in April 2025. The committee reinforces steadily deepening defence relations between the two nations.
The co-chairs expressed contentment over the successful conduct of Navy and Army Staff Talks earlier this year and agreed to sustain high-level engagement and cooperation.
Conclusion
The 7th JCDC meeting underscored the shared vision of India and Saudi Arabia to advance defence cooperation through capacity building, technology sharing, and industrial partnerships. This collaborative momentum enhances the strategic partnership amid evolving regional security challenges, marking a significant chapter in bilateral defence relations.
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Source: PIB
