Rome witnessed a pivotal moment in Indo-Italian defense relations as officials from both countries committed to elevating their industrial cooperation. Defense Production Secretary Sanjeev Kumar’s visit to Italy culminated in agreements to deepen ties across strategic defense priorities.
During a key meeting with General Luciano Portolano, the Chief of the Italian Armed Forces, Kumar and his counterpart aligned on amplifying industrial synergies. The focus was on harnessing the complementary capabilities of India’s burgeoning defense manufacturing sector and Italy’s advanced aerospace and security technologies.
Preceding this, Kumar conferred with Under Secretary Matteo Perego di Cremnago and Admiral Giachino Ottaviani, Director of National Armaments. Conversations delved into existing projects, policy alignments, and frameworks to guide future defense industry participation.
A flagship event, the India-Italy Defense Industry Seminar, brought together leaders from PSUs, private firms, and innovative startups. Under the banners of SIDM and AIAD, delegates engaged in B2B and B2G sessions, uncovering potentials in joint production, technology transfer, and supply chain resilience.
Kumar’s address highlighted India’s push for self-reliance in defense (Atmanirbhar Bharat) and how Italian expertise could complement these efforts. The seminar provided a platform for tangible outcomes, fostering direct industry linkages.
This momentum follows PM Modi’s positive remarks during his meeting with Antonio Tajani last December, noting the ‘continuously strengthening’ bilateral bonds. With global security challenges mounting, India and Italy’s enhanced partnership promises mutual growth and strategic stability.
Looking ahead, expect increased joint ventures, co-development of systems, and shared R&D initiatives, positioning both as key players in the international defense market.