DEFENCE TIES
India-Russia summit: Issues of regional, global interest to figure in talks between Modi, Putin
Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to visit Russia for an upcoming summit, where regional and global issues will be discussed with President Vladimir Putin, according to Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra. Kwatra highlighted the importance of the annual India-Russia Summit, saying, "We attach great importance to it."
Indian Navy chief meets newly-appointed Bangladesh Army chief; discusses new avenues for cooperation
Indian Navy chief Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi visited Bangladesh to bolster defense ties, meeting with Army Chief General Waker-Uz-Zaman and Air Force Chief Air Marshal Hasan Mahmood. Discussions included enhancing cooperation in training, joint exercises, and interoperability. Tripathi also met with Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, emphasizing the strong naval cooperation between India and Bangladesh. The visit aimed to strengthen bonds and explore new avenues for collaboration.
Rajnath Singh, Australian Deputy PM Richard Marles discuss closer cooperation in Indo-Pacific
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held talks with Australia's Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles, focusing on enhancing defence cooperation and closer collaboration in the Indo-Pacific region. They highlighted the significant progress under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, citing India's role as a top-tier security partner in Australia's National Defence Strategy. Marles congratulated Singh on his reappointment and India's T20 cricket victory. The dialogue reflects deepening ties between the two nations across various sectors, fostering new avenues for bilateral and global cooperation.
India and Bangladesh strengthened defence ties with new naval contracts
India and Bangladesh have strengthened their defence ties through a new deal signed after Bangladesh PM Sheikh Hasina's visit to India. The Bangladesh Navy contracted India's Garden Reach Shipbuilding and Engineers (GRSE) for an 800-tonne oceangoing tug, funded by Indian credit. GRSE also recently signed a deal for a dredger. The tug will aid in towing, berthing, and rescue operations, and can handle harsh sea conditions. The nations also agreed on further cooperation in maritime security, space, and counterterrorism.
US-India held frank talks on Delhi's defence tech ties with Russia, says US Dy Secy of State Campbell
US Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell emphasized the importance of frank dialogue with India regarding New Delhi's ties with Russia, particularly in the technology sector, including defense. Despite US concerns about potential technology leakage to Russia due to India's use of Russian defense equipment, Campbell expressed trust and confidence in India's capabilities. He noted that while there are disagreements, both countries maintain respectful discussions. Campbell also highlighted discussions on the Quad initiative during recent meetings between US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and India's NSA Ajit Doval, affirming strong commitment to hold the Quad summit by year-end.
INDUS-X defence initiative between US & India marks 1st anniversary
The India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem has marked the first anniversary of its initiative to build a defence innovation bridge under the Critical and Emerging Technology Initiative (iCET). Launched on June 21, 2023, during Prime Minister Narendra Modi's state visit to Washington, DC, INDUS-X enhances the strategic and defence partnership between India and the US. This initiative has bolstered private sector cooperation and facilitated partnerships among defence technology companies, investors, and researchers. The upcoming INDUS-X Summit in September 2024 will focus on leveraging private capital for defence innovation, further strengthening the India-US defence ties.
US, India must remain at forefront of technology: NSA Ajit Doval
National Security Advisor Ajit Doval emphasized the crucial role of India and the US in leading technological advancements to safeguard their respective values and strategic interests. His remarks came during the iCET (India-US initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology) industry roundtable, where he highlighted the progress and significance of collaboration under iCET. Doval's comments followed recent initiatives unveiled with US counterpart Jake Sullivan to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, critical minerals, telecommunications, and defence space.
iCET Meet: Doval, Sullivan focus on co-production, co-development, R&D
NSA Ajit Doval and US counterpart Jake Sullivan met for the second iCET meeting, focusing on co-production, co-development, and R&D. They emphasized staying at the forefront of innovation and coordinating with allies for secure technology solutions. They highlighted the need to safeguard sensitive technologies from leaks to countries of concern, without naming China.
US and India strengthen military ties, eye deeper collaboration
Top American and Indian defense officials have highlighted the growing importance of the US-India military partnership, especially in the Indo-Pacific region. At the 'Partners in Progress' symposium in Bengaluru, Rear Admiral Nirbhay Bapna of the Indian Navy praised the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two nations. He emphasized their joint commitment to ensuring peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific through enhanced information sharing and maritime awareness. US Defense Attaché to India Rear Admiral Michael Baker also stressed the significant role of the US-India defense partnership in global peace and security.
Taiwan says US arms sale shows 'commitment to defence' against China
Taiwan has expressed gratitude to the US for approving two military sales worth approximately $300 million to Taiwan, mainly of spare and repair parts for its F-16 fighter jets. The US has remained Taiwan's most important partner and biggest arms supplier, sparking repeated condemnations from China. Taiwan's defense ministry expressed gratitude for the approval and called on the Chinese Communist Party to stop irrational behaviours against Taiwan.
Maldives and China discuss further bolstering defence ties
After Maldives and China signed a defence agreement on March 4, President Mohamed Muizzu, who is perceived to be pro-China, announced that Beijing would supply military equipment and train soldiers under the agreement but offered no details, the portal said. Two days later, Muizzu announced that the Maldives would get free "non-lethal" military equipment and training from China's military under the agreement and underlined that it would further strengthen the Indian Ocean island nation's independence and autonomy.
Very strong relations with India; co-producing armored vehicles: US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin at Shangri La Dialogue
At the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the strong US-India relationship. He talked about advancements in co-producing armoured vehicles and fighter jet engines. He emphasised the shared values between the two nations and predicted continued progress and momentum in the partnership. The strong ties are important for the two countries amid trouble in the Indo-Pacific region.
India’s expanding defence ties in Indo-Pacific region to increase Sino-Indian competition
The International Institute of Strategic Studies (IISS) highlighted India's expanding defence role and partnerships in the Indo-Pacific region, which could further intensify the competitive nature of India-China relations. India's focus on being a preferred security partner through defence partnerships, combined exercises, and arms transfers is increasing its regional presence and influence, countering Beijing's influence. The report noted that India's defence engagement is primarily focused on the Indian Ocean region but is expanding to Southeast Asia and the Pacific Ocean.
Top US and Chinese defence officials seek to restore communications as tensions rise in Indo-Pacific
US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin met with Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun for the first time in person since 2022. The two discussed tensions in the Indo-Pacific region at the Shangri-La defence forum. The US emphasised freedom of navigation in the South China Sea. China accused the US of inflaming regional security. Both countries are restoring defence contacts and plan to resume military-to-military communications.
China criticises US in military unit's call with US defence official, says China ministry
China criticized the US during a video call between the Office for International Military Cooperation of the China Central Military Commission and the US Assistant Defense Secretary. The Chinese defense ministry stated that military "collusion" between the US and Taiwan, along with Taiwan pro-independence forces' "separatist" acts, are the main sources of chaos in the Taiwan Strait. Additionally, China accused the US of "meddling" in and "instigating" disputes in the South China Sea through proxies.
Sri Lanka in talks with India to set up small arms manufacturing unit: Premitha Tennakoon
Sri Lanka is in discussions with India to establish a small arms manufacturing unit, as part of their defence cooperation. State Minister of Defence Premitha Bandara Tennakoon said the discussions are ongoing and a joint venture in the military industry. The Indian envoy in Colombo, Santosh Jha, stated that India would be willing to make these capabilities available to Sri Lanka.
Our troops not capable of operating Dornier aircraft given by India: Maldives Defence Minister
Maldives Minister Comment: The training of Maldivians was the main reason for the arrival of Indian soldiers with the helicopters donated during former Presidents Mohamed Nasheed and Abdulla Yameen's governments and the Dornier aircraft brought during former President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih's government. The removal of Indian troops from Maldives was the main election campaign of Muizzu's party.
India-France to hold 7th edition of Exercise 'Shakti' from May 13-26
India and France are set to conduct the 7th edition of the Joint Military Exercise 'Shakti' from May 13-26 in Meghalaya's Umroi region. The exercise aims to enhance joint military capacity for Multi-Domain Operations in a Sub Conventional scenario. It will also promote interoperability and camaraderie between the armed forces of both nations. The previous edition of the exercise was held in France in 2021. This upcoming exercise highlights the strengthening defence ties between India and France.
NSA Doval, UK counterpart discuss critical tech, global issues during strategic dialogue
During this meeting, both top officials held a discussion focused on the Technology and Security Initiative, which will be a major bilateral mechanism to strengthen cooperation in critical and emerging technologies between the two countries, according to government officials.
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