India stands as a top-tier security partner for Australia, as affirmed in its recently unveiled National Defence Strategy (NDS) 2024. Released on April 17, 2024, this strategy underscores the significance of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between Australia and India, prioritizing practical cooperation to bolster stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Defence Minister Richard Marles unveiled the NDS 2024 alongside the Integrated Investment Program 2024 (IIP), marking a milestone in Australia’s defence planning. The NDS builds upon the Defence Strategic Review of the previous year, providing the framework for enhancing Australia’s defence capabilities. Concurrently, the IIP outlines procurement plans for the next decade, with projected defence expenditure reaching A$765 billion over the coming years.
The maritime domain holds paramount importance in Australia’s defence strategy, with 38percent of the allocated funds earmarked for maritime capabilities in the next decade. The government aims to enhance the range and lethality of the Australian Defence Force (ADF) to bolster deterrence and resilience while promoting interoperability with allied forces.
Top Tier Partner
India’s designation as a “top-tier” security partner reflects its pivotal role in the region, as emphasized by Australian envoy Philip Green. Under the NDS 2024, Australia pledges to support India’s regional role and deepen bilateral and multilateral defence cooperation, including defence industry collaboration and information sharing.
Amid escalating tensions in various flashpoints, including the Taiwan Strait and the South and East China Seas, the NDS acknowledges the need for vigilance and cooperation to address regional security challenges. Australia remains committed to bolstering maritime security in the Northeast Indian Ocean through increased engagement with regional partners like Sri Lanka, the Maldives, and Bangladesh.
“This includes continuing to expand our partnerships with Japan and India. Australia will also continue to work closely with like-minded partners outside the Indo-Pacific, including key European nations.”
Threat of Terrorism Continues
According to the NDS: “There remains potential for tension and miscommunication between India and Pakistan, and between India and China — with the risk of nuclear weapons use or proliferation a factor in each potential flashpoint,” it further said, noting, “The threat of terrorism from politically and religiously motivated extremist groups will endure, fuelled in part by ongoing violence and volatility in the Middle East.”
India-Australia Bilateral Military Cooperation
The recent visit of Chief of Royal Australian Navy Vice Admiral Mark Hammond to India underscores the commitment to strengthening maritime cooperation. Discussions focused on expanding operational engagements, training exchanges, and information sharing, reflecting the deepening defence ties between India and Australia.
Bilateral defence cooperation has witnessed significant progress, with mutual logistics support agreements and joint guidance documents strengthening defence collaboration. Australia’s liaison officer at the Indian Navy’s Information Fusion Centre and ongoing discussions on hydrography cooperation and air-to-air refuelling further enhance bilateral defence ties.
In conclusion, Australia’s recognition of India as a top-tier security partner reflects the evolving strategic partnership between the two countries. The commitment to deepen defence cooperation outlined in the NDS 2024 underscores the shared interests and mutual efforts to address common security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.