What happened?
Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh led an Indian delegation to Johannesburg, South Africa, for the 9th Joint Defence Committee (JDC) meeting on June 23 and 24, 2025. The South African delegation was headed by Acting Secretary for Defence, Dr Thobekile Gamede. During the meeting, two newly signed agreements in the domain of submarine cooperation were exchanged. The discussions highlighted India’s growing prowess in defence manufacturing and exports.
Why it matters to India
This meeting signifies India’s commitment to strengthening defence ties with South Africa, a relationship deeply rooted in shared history. The exchange of agreements on submarine cooperation directly contributes to India’s strategic defence interests and highlights its increasing capabilities in defence manufacturing and exports. This collaboration enhances India’s defence diplomacy and provides an avenue for mutual growth in the defence sector.