Mughal–Portuguese conflicts

Mughal–Portuguese conflicts refers to the various armed engagements between the forces of the Portuguese Empire in India and the Mughal Empire, between the 16th century and the 18th century.

The Mughal Empire came into direct contact with the Portuguese Empire in 1573 after Akbar annexed Gujarat, which bordered the Portuguese territories of Dio, Damaon & Bassein (Vasai) near Portuguese Bombay. The Portuguese governor António de Noronha then signed a treaty with Akbar, officially establishing bilateral relations between Portugal and the Moghal Empire.

Hostilities usually broke out because of diplomatic blunders, Portuguese support of the Maratha Empire or steadfast Portuguese rejection of Mughal demands for tribute.

Despite occasional incidents, Mughal-Portuguese relations were usually pragmatic in practice, as the Moghals prioritised land and Portuguese authorities the sea. Starting in 1573, the Mughals agreed not to harbour pirate fleets, welcomed Portuguese ambassadors and Jesuit missions in Agra and in return the Portuguese Crown granted a single naval license or cartaz each year to the Mughal emperors, who in effect tacitly acknowledged Portuguese naval supremacy.

Conflict with the Portuguese also caused the Mughal Empire to favour relations with the English East India Company, who were allowed to open a trading post at Surat, in the hopes that the English might be of assistance against the Portuguese.