What happened
India and Australia held Army-to-Army Staff Talks in Canberra from October 29–31, 2025, focusing on expanding cooperation in amphibious operations, unmanned aircraft systems, and regional security. Both sides reaffirmed their shared commitment to peace and stability across the Indo-Pacific. The Indian delegation also paid homage at the Australian War Memorial and visited the Royal Military College, Duntroon. The meeting coincided with the 15th India–Australia Joint Working Group on Counter-Terrorism, where both countries reiterated their resolve to combat terrorism, violent extremism, and radicalisation.
Why it matters to India
The talks underscored growing defence and security convergence between India and Australia, key partners in ensuring a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific. Enhanced cooperation in counter-terrorism, maritime security, and new domains such as unmanned systems reflects the maturing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Both sides also committed to strengthening coordination through platforms like the UN, FATF, and QUAD, signalling India’s continued focus on regional resilience and shared security frameworks.