In an effort to boost India-Africa bilateral defence relationship and to expand its export basket, the government is firming up plans to post more Defence Attaches (DA) to the continent.
The move comes close on the heels of the recently concluded G-20 Summit under India’s presidency where the African Union (AU) which has 55 member states was included as a permanent member of the grouping. The initiative to include AU in the grouping was initiated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and this was adopted by all the members of the G20.
Ten DAs from the Army (4), Navy (2) and Air Force (3) will be posted in countries like Algeria, Mozambique, Djibouti, Tanzania, Ivory Coast, as well as Ethiopia. And also, to Spain, Armenia and Poland. The tenure of the attaches is going to be three years.
DAs from the Army
Sources from the defence and security establishment have said that those from the Army will be posted in countries in Africa – Ethiopia, Mozambique and Algeria and one will be posted in European nation Poland.
DAs from Navy
Two will be posted to Tanzania and Djibouti, and the third most likely to the Philippines. However, no firm decision has been made so far.
“The plan is to post DAs in various Indian Missions in friendly nations and the focus will be on identifying the requirements of these countries and the region where the Indian weapon systems and platforms can be exported,” explained a top diplomat.
Boosting Sea Connections
Tanzania’s long stretch of coastline by the Indian Ocean is like a lifeline for trade and shipping. The Dar es Salaam port, which is the biggest in East Africa, plays a super important role in helping goods move not just in Tanzania but also in nearby landlocked countries. India is working on making this connection even stronger by investing in port and infrastructure projects. This will help goods move around easily, boost trade, and make the region’s economy stronger.
In 2022, after the Gandhinagar Declaration was signed during the India-Africa Defence Dialogue, there was a special naval exercise. Imagine it like a big practice session at sea, but with three countries: Tanzania, Mozambique, and India. They did this to deepen maritime cooperation and keep the Indian Ocean safe from piracy.
India has played a critical role in keeping the peace in this area and helping train soldiers from these countries.
Working Together on the Sea
Tanzania and India have been gradually deepening their cooperation, especially their navies and coast guards. They have also built a security system in the ocean to keep an eye on things. India even helped set up cameras along the coast to watch over the Indian Ocean.
DAs from IAF
A new Air Attache from the Indian Air Force will soon go to Ivory Coast in Africa. Plans are being worked out to send Attaches to Spain and Armenia.
Importance of the DAs
They help with security relationships with other countries. Right now, India has 122 embassies in different countries and 64 Defence Attaches.