The recent visit by Princess Astrid and Belgium's Defence Minister Theo Francken during the first week of March this year, holds considerable importance for the enhancement of defence relations between India and Belgium, as well as in the broader context of India-European Union defence collaboration. Belgium, being a key member of the European Union, plays an important role in European defence. The European Union has recently advocated for a significant increase in the EU's defence budget, proposing a rise to €800 billion. This substantial financial commitment opens avenues for Indian defence companies to collaborate with Belgian and other European defence companies, thereby addressing the extensive requirements for defence equipment and platforms that accompany such a major budgetary expansion. Consequently, the European Union is poised to become a vital market for Indian defence enterprises, fostering opportunities for mutual growth and innovation in the sector.

The European Union has recently advocated for a significant increase in the EU's defence budget, proposing a rise to €800 billion

This high-profile visit occurs against the backdrop of US President Donald Trump's recent admonition of European NATO allies, emphasising that reliance on American military support cannot be sustained indefinitely. The European Union is now confronted with the reality that it can no longer depend on the extensive defence assistance previously provided by the United States. Historically, during the Cold War, Europe benefited from the military and nuclear protection offered by the US, which diminished the necessity for substantial investments in its own military capabilities. However, the current geopolitical landscape has prompted European nations to recognise that the era of US military dominance is waning, necessitating a collective effort to bolster European security. NATO partners in Europe, equipped with significant financial resources, are now in a position to allocate approximately three per cent of their annual budgets specifically for the enhancement of defence systems.

The potential investment of over €800 billion annually by the European Union and its affluent member states in enhancing independent security infrastructure presents a significant opportunity for India. As Europe seeks to establish its own military capabilities to effectively manage its security challenges, there will be an increasing demand for collaboration with democratic partners such as India. This partnership is crucial for integrating India into the defence supply chain, thereby allowing both parties to benefit from shared expertise and resources. Given India's rising status as a strategic ally within the evolving geopolitical landscape, it is essential for the nation to cultivate robust defence relationships not only with individual EU member states but also with the European Union as a whole.

As Europe seeks to establish its own military capabilities to effectively manage its security challenges, there will be an increasing demand for collaboration with democratic partners such as India

The visit by the Belgian Princess followed a delegation from the European Commission comprising all 27 commissioners, which underscores the high priority placed on strengthening strategic ties with India. This delegation, led by EU President Ursula von der Leyen, engaged in significant discussions with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during which both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing defence and security cooperation. The dialogue highlighted the growing collaboration in the defence sector, including joint military exercises and partnerships between the Indian Navy and EU maritime security organisations, reflecting a mutual interest in bolstering regional stability and security.

The representatives from the European Union conveyed their appreciation for India's expressed interest in participating in the initiatives under the EU's Permanent Structured Cooperation (PESCO) and in pursuing discussions regarding a Security of Information Agreement (SoIA). The leaders underscored their intention to investigate the potential for a security and defence partnership, reaffirming their dedication to promoting international peace and security. This commitment includes a focus on maritime security, addressing both traditional and non-traditional threats to protect vital trade routes and sea lanes. They highlighted the importance of enhancing collaboration in counter-terrorism efforts and strengthening international cooperation to effectively combat terrorism, particularly in relation to cross-border terrorism and the financing of such activities, in a comprehensive and sustained manner.

Belgium plays a crucial role in the development of India's Zorawar light battle tank as Belgian defence company John Cockerill has contributed the 105 mm gun turret

Subsequently, a delegation from Belgium, led by a Princess and accompanied by the defence minister, visited India to discuss potential defence collaborations in the Indo-Pacific region, with a specific emphasis on the maritime domain. During these discussions, they explored avenues to bolster defence industrial cooperation between the two nations. The Indian defence minister conveyed to the Belgian Princess that India is open to investments in its defence sector, suggesting that Belgian companies could significantly contribute to the supply chains. Furthermore, both countries reached an agreement to consider the establishment of a formalised defence cooperation mechanism, aiming to enhance their strategic partnership in defence matters.

Following high-level discussions, the two parties formalised their collaboration by signing agreements focused on defence technology, military cooperation, and manufacturing partnerships. To further enhance defence ties, the European nation announced the appointment of a Defence Attaché in New Delhi, signalling a strong commitment to strengthening military and strategic relations with India. This move underscores the intent to foster a more robust defence framework between the two countries.

Following high-level discussions, Indian and Belgium formalised their collaboration by signing agreements focused on defence technology, military cooperation, and manufacturing partnerships

In a media briefing, the Belgian defence minister emphasised the necessity for a more profound defence partnership with India, citing the region's significance and the increasingly aggressive posture of China. Belgium regards India as a vital ally within its strategic framework, particularly concerning the Indo-Pacific region. Notably, Belgium plays a crucial role in the development of India's Zorawar light battle tank, designed for operation in the challenging high-altitude environments of the Himalayas. The Belgian defence company John Cockerill has contributed the 105mm gun turret, an essential component of the Zorawar tank, which has been developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation. Furthermore, Indian defence officials are keen on broadening this collaboration to encompass other sectors, including aerospace and manufacturing. Additionally, John Cockerill has entered into an agreement with the Indian defence technology firm Electro Pneumatics and Hydraulics Private Limited (EPHL) to jointly manufacture the turret for the Zorawar tank.

The CEO of the Belgian company, Thierry Renaudin, has expressed his firm commitment to transforming India into a global manufacturing hub. He emphasised that the joint venture with EPHL is a testament to their dedication to advancing India's defence modernisation and achieving self-reliance. Renaudin highlighted that this collaboration will deliver robust and customised defence solutions specifically designed to meet India's unique requirements. The joint venture, structured as a 60:40 partnership, aims to introduce cutting-edge Belgian defence technology to the Indian market, thereby positioning India as a significant player in the international defence sector.

India has already established robust defence relationships with several influential European nations, including France, Spain, Germany, and Italy

In a bid to further strengthen defence ties with Belgium, India's Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has received an invitation to visit Belgium. This invitation is part of a broader initiative to highlight the growing defence collaboration between the two nations. To symbolise this partnership, a Belgian navy frigate has been scheduled to visit an Indian port, while Indian naval vessels are set to participate in Belgium's Navy Day celebrations. These exchanges are indicative of the deepening military cooperation and mutual interests shared by both countries.

India has already established robust defence relationships with several influential European nations, including France, Spain, Germany, and Italy. The emergence of Belgium as a significant defence partner further enhances India's strategic position within Europe. Strengthening defence relations with various European countries is crucial for India as it aspires to become a key defence ally of the European Union, especially in light of the recent substantial increases in the EU's defence budget. This evolving landscape presents India with opportunities to play a pivotal role in European defence initiatives and collaborations.

(The writer is a senior journalist and strategic affairs analyst)