India-Australia Defence Ties: A Pillar for Indo-Pacific Stability

Context

The evolving global security environment, especially due to unpredictable U.S. foreign policy and the possible return of Donald Trump, has created uncertainty around traditional alliances like NATO. This opens new opportunities for middle powers like India and Australia to build a stronger defence partnership, especially in the Indo-Pacific.

Strategic Convergence

• Both nations are key players in the Indo-Pacific, facing common concerns over China’s assertive behaviour.

• Australia’s location between the Indian and Pacific Oceans complements India’s maritime strategy.

• Their cooperation has become deeper than with some of India’s other strategic partners like Japan or South Korea.

• Australia now sees India as a top-tier security partner.

Institutional and Operational Progress

• Key frameworks:

  • Comprehensive Strategic Partnership (2020)

  • 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue (2021)

• Operational ties include:

  • Mutual Logistics Support Agreement

  • Air-to-Air Refuelling Arrangement (2024)

• Joint exercises:

  • AUSTRAHIND (Army), AUSINDEX (Navy)

  • Multilateral: Pitch Black, Malabar

These reflect growing interoperability and trust.

Limits to U.S. Substitution

• India faces continental security threats—from China and Pakistan.

• Australia is adjusting under AUKUS and expanding ties with Pacific Islands.

• Hence, bilateral efforts should focus on areas of tangible cooperation, not replacing U.S. security roles.

Five Focus Areas for Future Cooperation

1. Go Beyond Naval Focus

• Encourage tri-service joint exercises simulating real-world conditions.

2. Upgrade India’s Defence Presence

• Raise Canberra’s Defence Adviser post to one-star rank.

• Add Army and Air Force assistants, with focus on Pacific engagement.

3. Include Operational Officers

• Engage mid-level officers in strategic dialogues.

• Promote war-gaming, fellowships, and military exchanges.

4. Collaborate on MRO and Maritime Security

• Use India’s MRO expertise for joint production (e.g., patrol boats for island nations).

5. Boost MSME and Start-up Engagement

• Create an INDUS X-style model for joint defence innovation and tech start-ups.

Conclusion

In an era of uncertain alliances, the India-Australia defence relationship is becoming central to Indo-Pacific security. By deepening coordination, joint innovation, and operational synergy, both countries can turn their strategic convergence into actionable security outcomes, ensuring stability, autonomy, and resilience in the region.