As global defence strategies evolve, the UAE and India have deepened their bilateral cooperation, creating a robust framework for innovation and capacity building across strategic defence domains. The UAE, with its growing influence in defence technology, and India, a rising industrial powerhouse, are now focused on leveraging each other’s strengths to enhance security and self-reliance. Central to this cooperation is the air defence sector, where the joint efforts are driving advancements in localisation and innovation.

EDGE Group has played a pivotal role in advancing this collaboration, particularly through partnerships with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) and Adani Aerospace & Defence. With HAL, EDGE entity AL TARIQ is working to integrate precision-guided munitions (PGMs) with the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA), significantly enhancing its operational capabilities.

EDGE’s collaboration with Adani Aerospace & Defence expands this strategic effort. Together, the two companies aim to develop critical air defence technologies and establish joint research and development (R&D) and production facilities that serve both local and global markets. Such collaborations highlight a mutual commitment to localisation, reducing reliance on external supply chains while fostering indigenous capabilities that will benefit both nations in the long term.

A core pillar of these partnerships is the ‘Make in India’ initiative, which seeks to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing. EDGE’s agreement with Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) to co-produce AL TARIQ’s precision-guided munitions (PGMs) within India exemplifies a strategic approach to technology transfer and local production. This venture not only meets India’s immediate defence needs but also paves the way for greater autonomy and innovation in the air defence sector.

Another significant driver of UAE-India cooperation is their shared commitment to joint R&D. By investing in collaborative R&D, both countries are positioning themselves to lead in the development of next-generation technologies. This approach is fostering the creation of advanced defence systems tailored to meet the unique operational requirements of each nation, while driving innovation that can be leveraged globally. The focus on co-developing solutions through shared resources ensures that the benefits of innovation are maximised, reducing time-to-market for new systems and enhancing both countries’ defence capabilities.

Additionally, knowledge transfer and skill development play a vital role in this collaboration. As EDGE and its Indian partners work together on advanced technologies, there is a concerted effort to exchange technical expertise and create opportunities for workforce upskilling. This exchange facilitates the transfer of technology while also nurturing a highly skilled workforce essential for maintaining the competitiveness of both countries’ defence sectors. By investing in human capital development, the UAE and India are building a foundation for sustained growth in the defence industry, ensuring that their cooperation extends beyond technology into talent and capability building.

The UAE and India’s work in the air defence sector represents a significant step in international defence cooperation. By focusing on joint development, localisation, and technology transfer, both countries are preparing to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving security landscape. As they continue to collaborate, the focus will likely shift toward integrating new technologies, fostering innovation, and responding to global security needs with agility.

EDGE is committed to deepening these partnerships and sees tremendous potential for continued collaboration in next-generation technologies. By working together, the UAE and India are building an air defence sector that is resilient and adaptable to future challenges, reinforcing their leadership in the global defence industry.