India and Germany prepare to sign a defence roadmap focusing on submarines, AI, and advanced military cooperation during Rajnath Singh’s visit.
April 19, 2026: Rajnath Singh is set to visit Germany from April 21 to 23, where India and Germany are expected to sign a key defence industrial cooperation roadmap aimed at strengthening bilateral military ties. The discussions will focus on expanding defence manufacturing partnerships, boosting military-to-military engagement, and exploring emerging areas such as cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, and drone technologies. This marks the first visit by an Indian defence minister to Germany in seven years.
The visit comes at a crucial time as India moves closer to finalising the ambitious Project 75I, a ₹70,000-crore programme to build next-generation conventional submarines. Under the project, Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited will collaborate with Germany’s thyssenkrupp Marine Systems to construct six advanced submarines aimed at enhancing the Indian Navy’s underwater capabilities.
These submarines, based on the HDW Class 214 design, will feature advanced air-independent propulsion (AIP) systems, enabling longer underwater endurance. The first vessel is expected to be delivered seven years after the contract is signed, with subsequent submarines delivered annually. The collaboration reflects a broader push by India to strengthen domestic defence manufacturing while deepening strategic partnerships with global allies.