India has introduced a new plan called RAKSHA, which outlines its defense diplomacy goals for the next decade. This framework aims to help India build stronger military and strategic partnerships around the world.
RAKSHA focuses on strengthening India’s military ties, fostering cooperation in defense industries, and enhancing global security partnerships. It aligns India’s defense efforts with its broader foreign policy, economic interests, and national security goals. The plan was announced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in New Delhi on September 3, 2026.
The framework emphasizes moving beyond traditional military exchanges to create long-term, outcome-focused partnerships that promote regional stability, boost military capabilities, and support India’s defense industries. It encourages collaboration in areas where India and partner countries share common interests.
One key part of RAKSHA is deepening strategic partnerships. India has already increased its defense engagement with nations across the Indo-Pacific, Europe, West Asia, Africa, and other regions. Recent agreements include supplying advanced missile systems to Indonesia.
The plan also highlights capacity building through training programs for foreign military personnel, joint exercises, and professional exchanges. These efforts aim to build trust and improve interoperability between friendly nations’ armed forces.
Another major focus is defense industrial cooperation. India is pushing for partnerships that involve co-development, co-production, technology transfer, and supply chain integration. This aligns with its goal of becoming more self-reliant in defense manufacturing.
India’s defense exports have grown significantly, reaching a record ₹38,424 crore in FY 2025-26. RAKSHA aims to use defense exports as a tool for advancing India’s foreign policy and global influence.
The framework also prioritizes maritime security and regional stability. As a key power in the Indian Ocean region, India is expanding naval cooperation through exercises, capacity building, and humanitarian assistance.
By linking strategic partnerships, military cooperation, industrial growth, and exports, RAKSHA seeks to position India as a leading defense partner globally. If successful, it will strengthen India’s role as a regional security provider and a growing force in global defense manufacturing.