India and the UAE are strengthening their defence ties through enhanced “positive military engagement,” focusing on joint exercises, training, and technology sharing. This partnership builds on strong economic bonds and aims to promote regional stability. Recent high-level talks signal deeper collaboration amid global security challenges.
India and the UAE held key discussions during the 9th Joint Commission Meeting on Defence Cooperation in Abu Dhabi. Both nations agreed to boost “positive military engagement,” including more joint military exercises like Desert Cyclone and regular staff talks. This follows high-level visits, such as UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed’s trip to India in 2025, where leaders reaffirmed commitment to strategic defence ties.
The partnership emphasizes interoperability through shared training programs for armies, navies, and air forces. India supplies defence equipment like BrahMos missiles to the UAE, while both explore co-production of advanced systems. Maritime security in the Indian Ocean remains a priority, with joint patrols countering piracy and ensuring trade route safety. This aligns with India’s Act East policy and UAE’s regional outreach.
Enhanced military ties foster technology transfer, skill development, and joint R&D in drones, cybersecurity, and AI-driven warfare. For India, it opens UAE markets for exports worth billions; for UAE, it diversifies suppliers beyond traditional partners. The collaboration supports peace initiatives, including humanitarian aid and disaster response, strengthening bilateral trust.
FAQs [Frequently Asked Questions]
Q1: What is ‘positive military engagement’ between India and UAE?
It refers to cooperative activities like joint exercises, training, equipment sharing, and maritime patrols to build trust and regional stability without confrontation.
Q2: Which joint exercises do they conduct?
Desert Cyclone (army), Al Mohedoon (navy), and Desert Eagle (air force) enhance interoperability and combat readiness between the two forces.
Q3: How does this benefit India’s defence exports?
It boosts sales of BrahMos missiles, radars, and tech to UAE, creating jobs and diversifying markets amid rising global demand.