Rajnath Singh on Tuesday stressed the growing importance of strategic defence partnerships between technologically advanced nations as he addressed the India-Republic of Korea Defence Industry Roundtable in Seoul.

Speaking before senior defence officials and industry leaders, Singh said the global defence industrial ecosystem is undergoing rapid transformation due to emerging technologies, shifting supply chains and fast-changing geopolitical realities. He noted that modern warfare is increasingly becoming technology-driven, with innovation cycles becoming shorter and manufacturing systems more advanced than ever before.

“Defence industrial ecosystems are undergoing rapid transformation around the world today. Emerging technologies are redefining the character of warfare. Manufacturing is becoming increasingly technology-intensive. Supply chains are being reconfigured and innovation cycles are becoming shorter than ever before,” Singh said during the roundtable discussion.

The Defence Minister emphasized that trusted cooperation between technologically capable countries has become strategically critical amid growing global uncertainty. He said India and South Korea are well-positioned to strengthen collaboration in defence manufacturing, advanced technologies and strategic industrial partnerships.

“In such an environment, trusted partnership between technologically capable nations acquires immense strategic importance. India and Republic of Korea are positioned to work together in this changing global landscape,” Singh added.

The remarks come at a time when India is actively expanding defence partnerships with key Indo-Pacific nations while pushing its broader “Make in India” and defence manufacturing initiatives. New Delhi has increasingly focused on boosting indigenous defence production, technology transfer and joint ventures with international partners.

South Korea has emerged as a significant player in the global defence manufacturing sector, particularly in advanced artillery systems, naval platforms, aerospace technologies and electronics. Over recent years, India and South Korea have strengthened strategic cooperation through defence dialogues, industrial partnerships and military exchanges.

Officials attending the roundtable reportedly discussed opportunities for collaboration in emerging defence technologies, supply chain resilience, aerospace systems and next-generation military manufacturing. The discussions also reflected broader Indo-Pacific security concerns and evolving strategic alignments in Asia.

India has been modernizing its armed forces at a rapid pace amid changing regional security dynamics and rising global competition in defence technologies. Experts believe closer cooperation with South Korea could support India’s efforts to strengthen domestic production capabilities while diversifying international defence partnerships.

The visit also underlines India’s increasing diplomatic and strategic outreach in East Asia as global powers intensify focus on Indo-Pacific security, maritime cooperation and technology-driven defence preparedness.

IndiaSouthKorea | Business Upturn

Rajnath Singh pushes India-South Korea defence partnership amid changing global warfare