This report examines the strategic potential of India-South Korea cooperation in space and defense sectors, addressing the persistent implementation gap that has limited their Special Strategic Partnership despite five decades of diplomatic relations. While bilateral trade has grown significantly to USD 25.56 billion by 2021-22, the partnership has struggled to translate shared interests into concrete outcomes in high-technology sectors.
The report demonstrates how deepening collaboration in space and defense can transform this relationship from a declaratory framework into a results-oriented partnership. It analyzes the complementary strengths of both nations: India’s cost-effective space launch capabilities, satellite applications expertise, and growing defense manufacturing base, alongside South Korea’s advanced precision manufacturing, cutting-edge electronics, and proven defense export success.
Contemporary geopolitical challenges, including China’s assertive space capabilities and North Korea’s accelerating missile programs, create urgency for enhanced technological cooperation between these democratic allies. The establishment of Korea Aerospace Administration (KASA) in 2024 and India’s ongoing space sector reforms provide new institutional frameworks for unprecedented collaboration.
The report provides comprehensive assessments of both nations’ capabilities, examines common threat perceptions, identifies specific collaboration opportunities, and offers detailed policy recommendations designed to bridge the implementation deficit and enhance mutual security in an increasingly contested strategic environment.