India and Japan held the eighth Defence Policy Dialogue in Tokyo on 13 July, reviewing the defence relationship at a time when both countries are paying closer attention to Indo-Pacific security.

The Indian delegation was led by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh. Japan was represented by Kano Koji, Vice Minister of Defence for International Affairs, according to the official release.

Strategic agenda

The two sides reviewed defence cooperation and reaffirmed the India-Japan special strategic and global partnership. The release also referred to a free, open and rules-based Indo-Pacific, a phrase that signals shared concern about stability, maritime access and lawful conduct at sea.

The dialogue covered military exchanges, cooperation between joint headquarters, maritime cooperation, defence exercises, capacity development and defence equipment and technology collaboration. Maritime technology was specifically mentioned among the areas discussed.

India and Japan already cooperate through naval exercises and wider strategic formats, but policy dialogues are useful because they translate broad political alignment into practical defence work plans.

Security significance

For India, Japan is a high-value partner in maritime domain awareness, shipbuilding, advanced technology and Indo-Pacific coordination. For Japan, India is central to any stable Asian balance that is not limited to treaty alliances.

The next phase will depend on whether the defence relationship produces more frequent operational contact, clearer technology projects and stronger institutional links. The Tokyo dialogue shows that both sides are keeping defence cooperation on a structured official track.

Maritime cooperation is likely to remain the most visible area because both countries depend on open sea lanes and stable rules for trade. Exercises and information sharing can help build habits of coordination before a crisis emerges.

Technology cooperation will be harder but more consequential. If the dialogue produces practical work on sensors, unmanned systems, maintenance, ship equipment or maritime surveillance, the partnership can move beyond statements into capability-building.

Source: release dated 13 July 2026, Release ID 2284141.