Strengthening Ties: India and UAE Enhance Military Cooperation

In a significant move to bolster military ties, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh of India met with Major General Rashid Mohammed Al Shamsi of the UAE to discuss enhancing defence cooperation. This meeting is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen bilateral relations, following previous discussions between military leaders from both nations. The commitment to regional security and stability was reaffirmed, highlighting the importance of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. With recent high-level visits and joint military exercises, both countries are paving the way for a robust defence collaboration.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 4, 2026, 21:42 IST

Deepening Defence Relations Between India and UAE

Abu Dhabi: On Friday, Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, the Chief of the Air Staff of India, met with Major General Staff Rashid Mohammed Al Shamsi, the Commander of the UAE Air Force and Air Defence, to discuss enhancing military and defence collaboration between India and the UAE.

The meeting, as reported by the UAE's Ministry of Defence on X, involved discussions on various mutual interests and strategies to bolster bilateral cooperation, particularly in military and defence sectors, aimed at promoting security and stability in the region.

Earlier in June, Brigadier General Staff Mohamed Khamees Mohamed Al-Hassani, Deputy Commander of the UAE Land Forces, visited New Delhi to meet Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi, where they also focused on strengthening military ties.

The Indian Army’s Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) noted that this interaction highlighted the deepening defence relations between India and the UAE, emphasizing the importance of professional exchanges and exploring new collaborative opportunities.

Both nations reiterated their commitment to enhancing institutional relationships, building mutual trust, and advancing a shared vision for regional security.

In January, UAE President Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan visited India, engaging in extensive talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, where they recognized the importance of robust defence and security cooperation as a fundamental aspect of their Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

The leaders acknowledged the positive momentum from recent visits by military chiefs and the successful execution of joint military exercises, culminating in the signing of a Letter of Intent towards establishing a Strategic Defence Partnership.