In a recent report, the Israeli newspaper Yedioth Ahronoth revealed that India has been supplying Israel with artillery shells, light weapons, and drones since the onset of the Israeli military operations in Gaza.
The report details that in February, Indian media outlets first disclosed that India was providing Israel with advanced Hermes 900 drones, manufactured in Hyderabad.
The factory, established by Israel in Hyderabad to supply the Indian army with these drones, redirected 20 drones specifically for the Israeli military due to shortages experienced during the conflict.
This Hyderabad-based factory is a joint venture between Israeli defense company Elbit Systems and Indian billionaire Gautam Adani’s conglomerate.
It is notable for being the first facility outside of Israel to produce these advanced drones.
The decision to redirect drones to Israel was likely approved by senior Indian officials, underscoring the strong defense relationship between the two countries.
Israel is one of India’s primary arms suppliers, which likely influenced this significant support during the conflict.
Yedioth Ahronoth also reported that alongside drones, India has supplied Israel with artillery shells and light weapons since the beginning of the conflict. This strategic partnership has proven to be highly beneficial for Israel.
The newspaper quoted former Israeli ambassador to India, Daniel Carmon, who recalled India’s gratitude towards Israel for its support during the Kargil War with Pakistan in the summer of 1999.
“The Indians always remind us that Israel was there for them during the Kargil War,” Carmon stated. “Israel was one of the few countries that stood by them and supplied them with weapons, and the Indians have not forgotten this, perhaps repaying the favor now.”
Yedioth Ahronoth noted that the ongoing conflict in Gaza has tested the relationship between Israel and India, a test that many allies have struggled with.
“During the early hours of October 7, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi unequivocally declared his support for Israel and condemned terrorism. Once he set the tone, his country demonstrated unwavering support for Israel in the initial months,” the report stated.
However, this clear stance has slightly shifted as India entered its election campaign earlier this month, influenced by the fact that approximately 15% of its population is Muslim.
Despite this, the Indian government’s general policy of support for Israel has not been rescinded, though additional elements have been incorporated into official statements.
