Question : Defence Cooperation Between India and Israel

(a) whether the Government proposes to further expand its strategic ties with Israel through the Research and Development (R&D) projects to develop hi-tech weapon systems;

(b) if so, the details thereof along with the details of projects currently underway and proposed to be developed;

(c) whether the Government has signed any Memorandum of Understanding with Israel for the development of combat equipment for defence purposes and if so, the details thereof;

(d) whether any Joint Working Group is reviewing the project-wise partnership between the two countries and looking into probable joint R&D projects in the fields like high endurance, UAVs, micro satellite surveillance systems, armoured vehicles etc.; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF DEFENCE (SHRI MANOHAR PARRIKAR)

(a) to (e): DRDO has signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel for various programmes in the field of Missiles, Electronic Warfare Systems, etc. The details of such tie-ups are sensitive in nature and disclosure of the same will not be in the interest of National Security. Overall, these projects are progressing as per schedule though there have been some slippages on account of technology absorption, delayed supply of essential components, contractual issues etc., which are addressed from time to time. However, the collaboration with the foreign countries for strategic tie-ups is ongoing process based on the needs of the Services & Nation.

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