Catalytic [3 + 2] annulation of ketimines with alkynes via C-H activation by a cationic iridium(cod) complex.

[3 + 2] Annulation of ketimines with internal and terminal alkynes proceeded via C-H activation to give aminoindene derivatives in high yields, which is catalyzed by a cationic iridium complex coordinated with 1,5-cyclooctadiene (cod).