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Indian Army Chief Gen Dwivedi Strengthens Defence Ties with Australia

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi held key discussions with his Australian counterpart, Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, focusing on enhancing bilateral defence cooperation and regional security. The two chiefs, who are alumni of the same class at the US Army War College, explored expanding the scope of joint military exercises between the two nations. During his four-day visit, General Dwivedi also visited the Australian Defence College, addressed officer trainees, and paid tribute at the Australian War Memorial. The visit underscores the growing strategic convergence and military partnership between India and Australia.

Key Points: India-Australia Army Chiefs Discuss Defence Cooperation

  • Bilateral defence talks
  • Alumni of US War College
  • Regional security dynamics
  • Expanding joint exercises
3 min read

COAS Gen Dwivedi discusses bilateral defence ties with Australian Army Chief Lt Gen Simon Stuart

COAS Gen Upendra Dwivedi meets Australian Army Chief Lt Gen Simon Stuart, discusses joint exercises and regional security during Australia visit.

"Both chiefs are alumni of the United States Army War College, Class of 2015, a shared professional bond that continues to strengthen strategic understanding. - ADG PI"

Canberra, February 19

Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi discussed bilateral defence cooperation with Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Simon Stuart during his four-day visit to Australia.

According to the Indian Army, both army chiefs are alumni of the United States Army War College and share professional comradery.

ADG PI wrote on X, "A ceremonial welcome was accorded to General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, at the Russell Offices with a Guard of Honour. COAS called on Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, Chief of Army, Australian Army. Both chiefs are alumni of the United States Army War College, Class of 2015, a shared professional bond that continues to strengthen strategic understanding between the two armies."

The two army chiefs discussed defence cooperation, regional security dynamics, and expanding the scope of joint exercises between India and Australia.

"The discussions focused on advancing bilateral defence cooperation, regional security dynamics and expanding the scope of joint exercises. The COAS was also briefed on key operational and capability developments, reinforcing the growing India-Australia Army partnership," ADG PI added.

He also visited the Australian Defence College, where he met Australian Defence College Commander Major General Martin White and Australian War College Commandant Brigadier Lara Troy.

ADG PI posted on X, "General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS, visited the Australian Defence College, where he interacted with Major General Martin White, Commander, Australian Defence College, and Brigadier Lara Troy, Commandant, Australian War College. He later addressed the faculty and student officers of the Australian Command and Staff College, ACSC, sharing perspectives on contemporary leadership, emerging strategic challenges, and the evolving role of the Armed Forces in a dynamic security environment. His address emphasised jointness, adaptability, and the critical role of professional military education in shaping future-ready leaders."

During his visit, the Indian Army Chief also laid a wreath and attended the Last Post Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial.

"COAS General Upendra Dwivedi visited the Australian War Memorial, where he laid a wreath and attended the solemn Last Post Ceremony, paying tribute to the fallen and honouring their supreme sacrifice in the service of peace and security. The ceremony reflects shared values, enduring bonds, and a collective remembrance of sacrifice that continues to strengthen ties between the armed forces of both nations," ADG PI wrote in a separate X post.

According to the Defence Ministry, General Upendra Dwivedi is on an official visit to Australia from February 16 to 19. The visit is aimed at further strengthening India-Australia defence ties and reinforcing the growing convergence between the two nations.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
The visit to the War Memorial and the Last Post Ceremony shows deep respect. It's more than just strategic talks; it's about shared values and honouring sacrifice. This is the kind of diplomacy that builds lasting trust between nations.
R
Rohit P
Good step forward. Hope these discussions translate into more concrete joint exercises and technology sharing. Australia has advanced capabilities in certain domains. We should focus on practical outcomes that enhance our own defence preparedness.
S
Sarah B
As someone living in Australia, it's heartening to see this engagement. The strategic convergence between India and Australia on issues like maritime security is clear. More people-to-people and military exchanges will only benefit both democracies.
V
Vikram M
While high-level visits are important, I hope the focus on "jointness and adaptability" trickles down to actual procurement and operational doctrines. Sometimes these meetings feel symbolic. We need faster decision-making on the ground to match our strategic ambitions.
K
Kavya N
The emphasis on professional military education is key. Our officers sharing perspectives at the Australian Command and Staff College is a fantastic two-way learning opportunity. Building a network of future leaders who understand each other is invaluable for long-term partnership. 👏

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