India Japan Sign Maritime Security Pact

On August 20, 2026, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjirō Koizumi met in New Delhi and signed a Memorandum of Arrangement on Maritime Security Cooperation. The pact establishes a framework for deeper cooperation between the India — Indian Navy and the Japan — Japan Self-Defense Forces, focusing on Maritime Domain Awareness, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. Both nations agreed to strengthen coordination to protect Sea Lines of Communication through joint exercises, naval visits, and logistical support, including port access and ship repair. They also agreed to explore joint naval shipbuilding and design, leveraging Japan's technology and India's manufacturing capabilities under the 'Make in India' initiative. The ministers welcomed the expansion of bilateral exercises such as Dharma Guardian, JAIMEX, and the upcoming Veer Guardian 26 air exercise. They also committed to advancing the UNICORN communications antenna system project, deepening R&D cooperation between DRDO and ATLA, and establishing a working group to coordinate defence cooperation. The meeting follows Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's visit to India in July 2026, during which both sides agreed to deepen defence ties and signed over USD 10 billion in agreements. The pact reflects a shared commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific, amid China's growing assertiveness in the region.