India–Indonesia Deepen Defence Ties at 3rd Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in New Delhi

India and Indonesia Strengthen Defence Partnership at 3rd Ministerial Dialogue in New Delhi

India hosted the third edition of the India–Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in New Delhi, where both nations agreed to intensify defence industrial cooperation and expand strategic engagement across the Indo-Pacific. The meeting reaffirmed the growing security partnership between the two maritime powers and highlighted shared interests in naval capability, cyber readiness and regional stability.

Indonesia Shows Interest in India’s Submarine Programme

Indonesia acknowledged India’s growing expertise in submarines, praising the progress of the Scorpene-class fleet built under a technology transfer arrangement with France’s Naval Group. India has commissioned six Scorpene submarines between 2017 and 2023, with three more under development, showcasing advances in shipbuilding and indigenous manufacturing. Jakarta sees opportunities to collaborate in submarine technologies, supply-chain integration and naval maintenance.

Joint Defence Industry Committee to Be Established

To give structure to future collaborations, the two nations agreed to set up a Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee . The forum will promote co-development, research partnerships, certification alignment and technology exchange. The ministers stressed the need to institutionalise cooperation to accelerate defence production and increase self-reliance in critical systems.

Shared Vision for Indo-Pacific Security

The dialogue took place amid increasing geopolitical sensitivities in the Indo-Pacific. Both countries reiterated support for a free, rules-based maritime zone and emphasised expanded cooperation in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and joint exercises . Plans to increase tri-service exchanges, military training and operational coordination were also highlighted.

Exam Oriented Facts

• Third India–Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue held in New Delhi .

• Indonesia expressed interest in India’s Scorpene-class submarine programme .

• A Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee will be created.

• Focus areas: Indo-Pacific security, maritime awareness, cyber resilience.