India and Australia Forge Stronger Defence Partnership with Three New Agreements

India and Australia have taken a significant step forward in their defence partnership by signing three strategic agreements designed to enhance military cooperation between the two nations. The accords focus on information exchange, submarine search and rescue operations, and the institution of regular joint staff talks between their armed forces.

The agreements were inked during Defence Minister Rajnath Singh’s visit to Australia, where he met with Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles. Both leaders highlighted the growing defence collaboration, which now includes joint military exercises, technological and scientific cooperation, and defence industry engagement.

This development comes as the India-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership celebrates its fifth anniversary, underscoring the shared commitment to regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific. The talks also emphasized counter-terrorism initiatives and maritime security operations, reinforcing the nations’ strategic alignment.

Experts note that these agreements strengthen the Quad framework-comprising India, Australia, Japan, and the United States-by promoting coordinated efforts in maritime surveillance, ensuring freedom of navigation, and upholding international maritime law. The new pacts are expected to further consolidate India and Australia’s collective capacity to address emerging regional threats and enhance defence preparedness.