India-Australia: Building A Stronger Defence Partnership

he Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a pivotal arena for global security and economic activity, making the evolving partnership between India and Australia crucial. Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN) is delighted to bring you this special edition focusing on the India-Australia bilateral relationship and its impact on the strategic landscape today commemorating the ANZAC Day. With Australia’s recent National Defence Strategy (NDS) 2024 identifying India as a top-tier security partner, the significance of this alliance has never been clearer.

Indian Aerospace Defence News (IADN) is proud to dedicate this special edition to exploring the evolving relationship between these two significant democracies. With a legacy of over 12 years of independent, in-depth coverage, IADN has been at the forefront of promoting strategic culture in India, providing insights into defence, security, and related issues. Today, we turn our focus to the emerging collaboration between India and Australia, which is reshaping the geopolitical landscape. The importance of India and Australia’s partnership extends beyond traditional defence cooperation. It encompasses shared values of democracy, a commitment to a rules-based international order, and a mutual interest in ensuring peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Both nations understand that their challenges—whether in maritime security, regional stability, or countering terrorism—require collective action and a comprehensive approach.”

Recent developments underscore the momentum in India-Australia relations. Joint military exercises, defence technology exchanges, and growing cooperation in space and cyber domains highlight the expanding scope of their partnership. This collaboration not only strengthens their bilateral ties but also contributes to the broader security architecture of the Indo-Pacific. The historical ties between India and Australia stretch back to the early days of European settlement in Australia, with trade links established through the British East India Company. Since then, the relationship has evolved, particularly in recent years, with a shift from a “Strategic Partnership” in 2009 to a “Comprehensive Strategic Partnership” (CSP) in 2020.

This transformation is rooted in a robust framework of bilateral mechanisms that have strengthened the cooperation between the two nations. High-level visits, annual meetings of prime ministers, and defense and foreign ministers’ dialogues reflect the commitment to deepening ties. These mechanisms are not just ceremonial; they serve as platforms for real progress in defense policy, education, energy, and more.

In 2022, India and Australia signed the Economic Cooperation and Trade Agreement (ECTA), the first trade agreement between India and a developed country in over a decade. This agreement underscores the expanding economic relationship, with bilateral trade reaching US$ 31.4 billion in 2022, a 41% increase from the previous year. These figures are a testament to the growing synergy between the two nations in areas like refined petroleum, medicaments, and pearls and gems from India, while Australia exports coal, copper ores, and education-related services.

One of the most significant advancements in the India-Australia relationship is in the field of defence and strategic cooperation. Australia’s NDS 2024 identifies India as a key partner, emphasizing practical and tangible cooperation to maintain Indo-Pacific stability. This cooperation is manifest in several landmark agreements, including the Mutual Logistics Support Agreement (2020) and the “Joint Guidance for the India – Australia Navy to Navy Relationship” (2021). Additionally, Australia’s Liaison Officer at the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre for Indian Ocean Region (IOR) signifies the deepening maritime collaboration.

Beyond these agreements, India and Australia are exploring new areas for defense cooperation. Discussions are underway for implementing arrangements on hydrography cooperation and cooperation for air-to-air refueling. Joint military exercise(s) AUSTRAHIND and defense industry collaborations are expected to grow, fostering a more integrated security framework in the Indo-Pacific.

The growing Indian community in Australia, now numbering nearly a million people, has also contributed to the strengthening of ties. This vibrant diaspora plays a vital role in fostering cultural connections and mutual understanding, further solidifying the foundation of the India-Australia relationship. As you read through this special edition, we place our gratitude to Excellency Mr Hugh Boylan , Hon’ble Consul General of Australia in Kolkata, for his support and continuous support to foster the bilateral relations.

We hope to offer a comprehensive perspective on the India-Australia partnership and its role in shaping the security and economic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific. The partnership is not without its challenges, but the mutual commitment to democratic values and a rules-based international order creates a solid platform for continued growth.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. We look forward to your insights and feedback as we continue to cover the evolving dynamics of the India-Australia relationship and its impact on global security.