German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius Expresses Interest in Strengthening Defence Ties with India
Image source: The Hindustan Times
Boris Pistorius has expressed Germany’s concern over India’s heavy reliance on Russian weapons and materials, stating that it is not in Germany’s interest for India to continue depending solely on Russia.
Pistorius made these remarks during his visit to the region, which aims to enhance security cooperation. He also hinted at the possibility of Germany offering submarine technology to India. Pistorius emphasized the need for joint efforts to address India’s dependence on Russian weaponry and explore avenues for collaboration.
Security in the Indo-Pacific
Pistorius highlighted the importance of the Indo-Pacific region in shaping the 21st century’s security, freedom of navigation, and international economic challenges.
While Germany has its Indo-Pacific guidelines, he stated that the country might not have an active role but will demonstrate its presence by deploying warships in the area.
Germany deployed its first warship, the frigate Bayern, to the Indo-Pacific in 2021; another ship is scheduled to be sent in 2024. Pistorius stressed the significance of discussions on how Germany can support both existing and new partners in the region.
Submarine Technology Cooperation
During his visit, Pistorius expressed Germany’s interest in potential cooperation with India on submarine technology, particularly from ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems (TKMS), a leading provider of naval vessels, surface ships, and submarines.
Image source: Asianet newsable
It sees an opportunity to collaborate with India on crucial submarine technologies. As India aims to acquire six advanced diesel-electric submarines, Germany and South Korea are among the manufacturers meeting the technical criteria for the deal. Pistorius’s visit may provide an opportunity for discussions on this proposal.
Germany-India Defence Relations
The strategic partnership between Germany and India has been maintained for 23 years, with the High Defence Committee serving as a visible manifestation of their growing strategic ties.
Image source: REUTERS
Pistorius emphasized the shared values and interests between the two countries, including their support for the rules-based international order, multilateralism, and open sea lines of communication. Increased contacts and exchanges between their Armed Forces have been witnessed in recent years. Plans for a maritime exercise between the German and Indian Navies next year highlight their continued cooperation.
Defence Export Controls
Pistorius acknowledged the need for Germany to strike a balance between delivering weapons to reliable partners while ensuring control and limiting the export of weapons worldwide. He stated that it has witnessed a change in public opinion and policies regarding defence exports.
As a result, the country has begun loosening its strict arms export controls. This change in approach allows it to consider supporting its partners in defence capacity building, including the provision of necessary equipment and technologies.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius’s visit to India underscores Germany’s commitment to strengthening defence ties and enhancing security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Concerns about India’s heavy reliance on Russian weapons and materials emphasized the need for joint efforts to address this issue.
He also indicated its interest in collaborating with India on submarine technology. The visit serves as an opportunity to discuss potential areas of cooperation and explore ways to diversify India’s defence procurement.
Germany’s willingness to support its partners and its focus on the Indo-Pacific region demonstrates its commitment to playing an active role in shaping the region’s security dynamics.
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