Zeitenwende Meets Atmanirbhar: Co-Creating the Future of Indo-German Defense

Indo-German defense ties are at a strategic inflection point. As Germany embraces Zeitenwende and India pursues Atmanirbhar Bharat, this report argues for shifting from transactional arms sales to deep industrial co-creation. It maps a decade-long strategy (2025–2035) to fuse German engineering with Indian manufacturing scale. Key recommendations include a $50M joint innovation fund, fast-tracked export controls (“Green Lists”), and integrating MSMEs into global supply chains. The goal: a resilient partnership building strategic autonomy for both nations.
Upload/Select an audio or use external audio url to work this widget.

This report analyzes the transformative potential of the Indo-German defense partnership, which currently stands at a “strategic inflection point” driven by Germany’s Zeitenwende and India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. It argues that while high-profile government contracts for platforms like submarines are essential, the sustainable future of this alliance lies in integrating Germany’s advanced Mittelstand technology with India’s scalable, cost-efficient manufacturing base.

The report identifies deep complementarities among naval systems, land warfare, and emerging technologies (AI and drones), while offering candid solutions to historical barriers such as restrictive export controls and trust deficits. Moving beyond a buyer-seller relationship, the report proposes a phased roadmap (2025–2035) to operationalize a “bilateral innovation ecosystem”. It outlines actionable steps—including a joint innovation fund and shared IP frameworks—to foster co-creation between MSMEs and startups, ultimately enhancing the strategic autonomy of both nations

View Report​
Download Report

CATALYZING IDEAS, TRANSFORMING PERSPECTIVES

Our publications empower governments with informed policy decisions, equip corporations with market foresight, and provide research institutions with comprehensive insights. Individuals gain a deeper understanding of global issues, while businesses leverage our diverse perspectives for innovation. Collaborating with us offers partners a competitive edge, cutting-edge research access, and a nuanced understanding of global dynamics, fostering sustainable growth and impactful change.