India and Indonesia have recently agreed to enhance their defence industrial collaboration following high-level talks held in New Delhi. This engagement highlights the shared strategic concerns of both nations in the Indo-Pacific region and emphasizes India’s growing stature as a defence manufacturing partner.
Indonesia commended India for its experience in submarine development, particularly emphasizing the Scorpene-class programme, which was executed through technology transfer with France’s Naval Group. Since 2017, six Scorpene-class submarines have been commissioned into the Indian Navy, with three additional submarines planned. Jakarta values India’s supply chain capabilities and domestic shipbuilding capacity as crucial inputs for its own naval modernization initiatives.
During the discussions, the defence ministers from both countries agreed to establish a joint defence industry cooperation committee. This proposed body will focus on technology transfer, joint research and development, certification harmonization, and the integration of supply chains. Both nations underscored the importance of structured institutional cooperation to foster long-term industrial partnerships.
The discussions were framed against a backdrop of increasing strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region. Both nations reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific grounded in international law. They pledged to enhance collaboration in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and operational readiness. Progress in bilateral military exercises across land, sea, and air operations was acknowledged, alongside plans to increase training exchanges and officer-level interactions.
Beyond the realm of defence industrial ties, the ministers reiterated their commitment to enhancing maritime security in the Indian Ocean. They discussed cooperation in humanitarian assistance and peace-building efforts, including support for a just resolution regarding the situation in Palestine. As a gesture of goodwill, India presented horses and a ceremonial carriage to Indonesia. Both sides expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of their discussions and committed to ongoing engagement to promote stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.
Q1. What are the key outcomes of the India-Indonesia defence talks?
Answer: The talks focused on deepening defence industrial collaboration, establishing a joint defence industry committee, and enhancing maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region.
Q2. What is the significance of the Scorpene-class submarines in this collaboration?
Answer: The Scorpene-class submarines exemplify India's technological capabilities and are crucial to Indonesia's naval modernization efforts through technology transfer.
Q3. How will the joint defence industry committee benefit both countries?
Answer: The committee will facilitate technology transfer, joint research and development, and integration of supply chains, strengthening long-term industrial partnerships.
Q4. What geopolitical concerns are driving this cooperation?
Answer: Rising strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific, the need for maritime security, and resilience against cyber threats are key concerns driving this collaboration.
Q5. How does this collaboration impact regional stability?
Answer: The partnership aims to enhance stability and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific by promoting maritime security, human rights, and humanitarian initiatives.
Question 1: What is the primary focus of the joint defence industry cooperation committee between India and Indonesia?
A) Technology transfer
B) Economic policies
C) Cultural exchange
D) Environmental protection
Correct Answer: A
Question 2: Which submarine programme is highlighted in the India-Indonesia talks?
A) Kilo-class
B) Scorpene-class
C) Virginia-class
D) Collins-class
Correct Answer: B
Question 3: What aspect of regional security is emphasized in the India-Indonesia discussions?
A) Land security
B) Maritime security
C) Air superiority
D) Cyber warfare
Correct Answer: B
Question 4: Which initiative is included in the discussions regarding humanitarian efforts?
A) Climate change
B) Peace efforts in Palestine
C) Trade agreements
D) Military alliances
Correct Answer: B
Question 5: What is one of the outcomes of the defence talks regarding military exercises?
A) Decrease in joint exercises
B) Increase in training exchanges
C) Cancellation of military drills
D) Focus on land operations only
Correct Answer: B
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