India and Australia have taken significant steps to enhance their defence cooperation, culminating in the unveiling of a new defence declaration aimed at deepening Indo-Pacific collaboration. This development follows a series of high-level dialogues and agreements between the two nations, reflecting their shared commitment to regional security and stability.
The latest milestone was achieved during the 10th Australia–India Defence Policy Talks held in New Delhi on May 8, 2026. The Indian delegation, led by Joint Secretary Shri Amitabh Prasad, and the Australian delegation, headed by First Assistant Secretary International Policy Mr. Bernard Philip, discussed various aspects of bilateral defence relations. Both sides welcomed the establishment of the annual Australia–India Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in 2025, which has significantly enhanced consultation and trust between the two countries.
A key outcome of these discussions was the agreement to renew and strengthen the Joint Declaration on Defence and Security Cooperation. This renewed declaration aims to bolster interoperability across all domains and deepen cooperation with regional partners. The two nations also agreed to develop a Joint Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap, underscoring their commitment to ensuring freedom of navigation and overflight in the Indo-Pacific region.
In addition to strategic agreements, India and Australia have been actively enhancing their military interoperability. The inaugural Joint Staff Talks are scheduled to take place later this year, marking a significant step in their defence collaboration. The two countries have also increased the frequency and complexity of joint defence exercises, including India’s participation in Exercise Talisman Sabre and Exercise Puk Puk in 2025. Maritime cooperation has been further deepened through mutual participation in International Fleet Reviews and exercises such as Milan and Kakadu.
The strategic importance of defence industrial collaboration has also been acknowledged. Efforts to facilitate connections include the first Australia–India Defence Industry Roundtable in Sydney in 2025, Australia’s first defence trade mission to India in 2025, and the defence industry strategic roundtable at the Raisina Dialogue in New Delhi in 2026.
These developments signify a robust and evolving defence partnership between India and Australia, aimed at promoting peace, security, and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. The new defence declaration is expected to further solidify this partnership, ensuring a coordinated approach to regional challenges and reinforcing the shared vision for a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, a flagship Indo-Russian joint venture, is witnessing unprecedented global interest and operational expansion, cementing its status as one of the most sought-after precision strike systems in the Indo-Pacific and beyond. Once primarily a mainstay of the Indian armed forces, the missile, capable of speeds up to Mach 3 and precision strikes from multiple platforms, has now become a key driver of India’s ambitious defence export goals. BrahMos Aerospace reported revenues exceeding 5200 crore in FY 2025-26, supported by fresh export orders worth around 4000 crore (approximately $455 million).
The Philippines became the first export customer in 2022 with a $375 million deal for shore-based anti-ship batteries. Deliveries of the first and second batches have strengthened Manila’s coastal defence amid South China Sea tensions. Vietnam and Indonesia have also entered into agreements for the procurement of BrahMos missiles, with Indonesia's deal valued at $630 million, marking one of India's largest defence export agreements to date.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has shown interest in acquiring the BrahMos missile system, with discussions underway for the possible sale of this advanced weaponry. If the deal materializes, the UAE would become the fourth foreign country to acquire the BrahMos missile system after the Philippines, Vietnam, and Indonesia.
This surge in global interest underscores the strategic significance of the BrahMos missile and highlights India's growing stature as a defence exporter. The missile's advanced capabilities and proven performance make it a valuable asset for nations seeking to enhance their defence capabilities. India's expanding defence exports, including the BrahMos missile, reflect a historic transformation in the country's defence sector, positioning it as a key player in the global defence market.
The deepening defence ties between India and Australia, coupled with India's expanding defence exports, particularly the BrahMos missile, are poised to significantly influence the strategic dynamics of the Indo-Pacific region. These developments not only enhance bilateral relations but also contribute to regional security and stability, reinforcing the shared commitment to a free, open, and inclusive Indo-Pacific.
The BrahMos missile's global reach and India's growing defence exports are expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of regional security, with both India and Australia at the forefront of these strategic advancements.
In conclusion, the unveiling of the new defence declaration between India and Australia marks a significant milestone in their bilateral relations, reflecting a shared vision for regional security and cooperation. The strategic importance of the BrahMos missile further underscores the depth of this partnership, with both nations poised to play a central role in shaping the security landscape of the Indo-Pacific region.
As India and Australia continue to strengthen their defence ties and expand their strategic collaboration, the Indo-Pacific region stands to benefit from enhanced security, stability, and prosperity, driven by the collective efforts of these two key partners.
The evolving defence cooperation between India and Australia, exemplified by the new defence declaration and the prominence of the BrahMos missile, signifies a robust and dynamic partnership committed to addressing regional challenges and promoting a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
This partnership not only enhances bilateral relations but also contributes to the broader goal of maintaining peace and stability in the region.