Seoul
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said India and South Korea are well placed to expand cooperation in the defence sector as rapid technological advancements continue to reshape global security and warfare.
Addressing the India-Republic of Korea Defence Industry Roundtable in Seoul, Singh said defence manufacturing ecosystems across the world are witnessing significant transformation driven by emerging technologies and changing geopolitical realities.
He noted that modern warfare is increasingly becoming technology-driven, while manufacturing systems are turning more advanced and innovation cycles are shortening rapidly.
“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.
He added that the current pace of technological change is closely linked to broader geostrategic shifts taking place globally, making partnerships between technologically advanced and trusted nations more important than ever.
“In such an environment, trusted partnerships between technologically capable nations acquire immense strategic importance. India and the Republic of Korea are well positioned to work together in this changing global landscape,” the Defence Minister said.
Singh praised South Korea’s industrial and technological progress, describing the country as one of the world’s leading manufacturing economies and industrial powers.
He highlighted the global leadership of Korean companies in sectors such as semiconductors, electronics, shipbuilding, automobile manufacturing, advanced batteries, petrochemicals and defence production.
The Defence Minister also pointed to the advanced capabilities of South Korean shipyards, calling them among the most efficient and technologically sophisticated in the world.
“It is my privilege to join this distinguished gathering of industry leaders, innovators, technology experts, policymakers and strategic partners from India and the Republic of Korea,” Singh said while extending greetings to participants at the roundtable meeting.
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The event brought together industry representatives, policymakers and strategic experts from both countries to explore opportunities for deeper cooperation in defence manufacturing, technology and industrial collaboration.