Strengthening India-Indonesia Defence Cooperation

India and Indonesia, two influential nations in the Indo-Pacific region, have taken a significant step towards deepening their defence cooperation with the 7th India-Indonesia Joint Defence Cooperation Committee (JDCC) meeting held in New Delhi on May 03, 2024. The meeting, co-chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Giridhar Aramane and Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence, Indonesia, Air Marshal Donny Ermawan Taufanto, M.D.S., underscored the shared commitment of both countries to enhance collaboration in various areas, including the defence industry, maritime security, and multilateral cooperation.

Expanding Scope of Defence Cooperation

During the JDCC meeting, both sides expressed satisfaction with the expanding scope of defence cooperation between India and Indonesia. The co-chairs reviewed the progress made on various bilateral defence cooperation initiatives deliberated in meetings of the Working Groups on Defence Cooperation and Defence Industries Cooperation.

The discussions focused on identifying means to enhance existing areas of collaboration, particularly in the field of defence industry ties, maritime security, and multilateral cooperation. This strategic alignment reflects the shared vision of both nations in maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region and fostering regional stability.

Strengthening Defence Industry Cooperation

One of the key areas of focus during the visit was the exploration of avenues to enhance defence industrial capabilities through cooperation in research and joint production. The Secretary General of the Indonesian Ministry of Defence visited the DRDO headquarters in New Delhi, as well as TATA Advanced Systems and L&T Defence facilities in Pune, underscoring the commitment to deepen defence industry ties.

Furthermore, the Indonesian delegation held deliberations with other Indian defence industry partners, including Bharat Forge, Mahindra Defence, and Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited. These interactions aimed to identify opportunities for collaborative projects, technology transfers, and joint ventures, leveraging the strengths of both nations' defence industries.

Maritime Security and Multilateral Cooperation

Given the strategic location of both India and Indonesia in the Indo-Pacific region, maritime security emerged as a crucial area for enhanced cooperation. The JDCC meeting explored ways to bolster collaborative efforts in ensuring safe and secure maritime domains, including through information sharing, joint exercises, and capacity-building initiatives.

Additionally, the dignitaries emphasized the importance of multilateral cooperation in addressing regional and global challenges. India and Indonesia, as key players in the Indo-Pacific, recognized the need to work closely within multilateral forums and mechanisms to promote regional peace, stability, and prosperity.

High-level Engagements and Commemorative Gestures

During his visit to India, the Secretary General of the Indonesian Ministry of Defence engaged in several high-level interactions, reflecting the depth of the bilateral relationship. He paid a visit to the Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chauhan, further solidifying the defence ties between the two nations.

In a symbolic gesture, the Secretary General laid a wreath and paid homage to the fallen heroes at the National War Memorial in New Delhi, honoring the sacrifices made by the valiant soldiers of both nations in preserving peace and security.

Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Indo-Pacific Cooperation

India and Indonesia share a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, underpinned by a shared vision of the Indo-Pacific region. The cooperation between the two nations extends beyond bilateral ties, encompassing frequent high-level interactions and close cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral arenas.

Indonesia is recognized as an important partner in India's Act East Policy and a key stakeholder in the Indo-Pacific region. The strong partnership between the two nations contributes to the promotion of a rules-based order, freedom of navigation, and regional stability, aligning with the shared interests of both countries.

Way Forward

The 7th India-Indonesia Joint Defence Cooperation Committee meeting in New Delhi marked a significant milestone in the defence cooperation between the two nations. The discussions focused on enhancing collaboration in areas such as the defence industry, maritime security, and multilateral cooperation, reflecting the shared commitment to maintaining a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific region.

The visit of the Secretary General of the Indonesian Ministry of Defence, coupled with high-level engagements and commemorative gestures, further solidified the strong bilateral ties between India and Indonesia. As key players in the Indo-Pacific, the cooperation between these two nations holds immense strategic importance, contributing to regional peace, stability, and prosperity.