This is actually happening right now! The European Union and India are about to level up their security game big time. A draft document that’s been floating around (and spotted by Reuters yesterday) spills that they’re planning a proper security and defence partnership. Word is, it’s getting signed on, January 27, 2026, during the EU-India summit. Talk about perfect timing – they’re also wrapping up that massive free trade agreement (FTA) at the same meet.
So what’s in this draft? It’s not just vague promises. They want an annual security and defence dialogue – like regular high-level chats to sync up on the big stuff. Maritime security is huge on the list (keeping sea routes open and safe, especially in the Indo-Pacific), plus cybersecurity, counter-terrorism, and even joint work on hybrid threats. There’s talk of India possibly joining some EU defence projects where interests match, industry exchanges, and maybe more joint naval exercises.
Remember those anti-piracy drills they’ve done together? This could make those more regular and deeper.
Why now? Europe’s been looking to diversify partners after all the drama with Russia-Ukraine and tensions with China. India’s a solid, rising power with a huge defence industry and no strings attached like some others. For India, it’s a chance to plug into European tech, standards, and markets while strengthening its global footprint. The bill of exchange mentions setting up forums for defence companies to connect, share know-how, and maybe co-produce cog. Smart move in a world where supply chains are getting shaky.
Other cool bits: better intel sharing on organised crime (maybe linking Europol with India’s agencies), space security talks, and cracking down on terror financing. It’s all framed around a “rules-based order” – code for sticking to international law like UNCLOS for oceans.
This isn’t coming out of nowhere. They’ve been building momentum – there was a joint communication from the EU back in September 2025 pushing for exactly this kind of partnership. And with the summit kicking off tomorrow, leaders are expected to greenlight it alongside the trade win.
Of course, it’s early days – they’ll have to sort out legal stuff, export controls, and tech safeguards. But the vibe is positive: this could be a game-changer for how Europe engages Asia and how India plays in multipolar security.
Sources :
Reuters
The Economic Times
Deccan Herald
Mint
News18
EU Council site
PIB India
