India and Germany on Wednesday inked a “defence industrial roadmap” to enable technology sharing and explore opportunities in emerging domains.Described by sources as a “two-way street”, the roadmap will allow Indian companies bidding for contracts in the German military equipment market to partner with German firms under a formal government-to-government framework.Conversely, it is expected to facilitate cooperation as India and Germany move closer to finalising a deal to co-produce next-generation conventional submarines in India.The document was signed in Berlin after Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his German counterpart Boris Pistorius during his three-day visit (April 21 to 23).“Exchanged views on a wide range of issues, including deepening our defence cooperation,” Singh posted on X.The Ministry of Defence said the two ministers discussed bilateral security issues, including priority areas for co-development and co-production of defence equipment, particularly in niche technologies. They also reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing military-to-military cooperation as a key pillar of the strategic partnership.The roadmap comes as German firm ThyssenKrupp Marine Systems has tied up with Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited to build six submarines in a deal estimated at around $8 billion, with discussions in the final stages before a formal contract is signed.In June last year, the two companies signed a memorandum of understanding to collaborate on building stealth submarines equipped with air-independent propulsion (AIP) technology, enabling them to remain submerged for longer durations.TKMS is a global leader in non-nuclear submarines based on AIP technology, which allows submarines to stay underwater for extended periods. India has sought operational AIP capabilities that could enable submarines to remain submerged for up to six days.The agreement aims to combine German technology with MDL’s manufacturing capabilities. Under the arrangement, TKMS will contribute to engineering and design, and provide consultancy support, while MDL will be responsible for construction and delivery. The submarines will be built in India with significant local content.Singh is also expected to interact with key representatives of the German defence industry to promote joint development and co-production under the Make in India initiative.Earlier, the minister laid a wreath at the Bundeswehr Memorial, honouring personnel who died in the line of duty.When asked about India’s role in facilitating peace in West Asia, Singh said: “India has tried, but everything has its time. It is possible that tomorrow the time may come when India plays a role and achieves success. We cannot rule out this possibility.”