India and Indonesia strengthened their defence partnership as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Indonesian Defence Minister Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin co-chaired the third India–Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in New Delhi on Thursday (November 27, 2025), where both sides also made notable progress on the proposed BrahMos supersonic missile deal.
A senior defence official said the discussions reflected a “progressive approach” from both nations, adding that the agreement “might get locked at the earliest.”
The Ministers recalled Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to India as Chief Guest for Republic Day this year and noted that his talks with Prime Minister Narendra Modi had significantly bolstered the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The participation of 352 personnel from the Indonesian Armed Forces in the parade was highlighted as a powerful symbol of growing defence cooperation.
According to the Ministry of Defence, while reiterating their commitment to a free, open, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific, the two sides emphasised adherence to international law and respect for sovereignty. They noted strong alignment between the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative, agreeing to intensify collaboration through multilateral platforms such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association, where India currently holds the chair.
Both countries are committed to enhancing cooperation in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and joint operational readiness.
The meeting reaffirmed the robust foundation of defence ties driven by the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the Joint Defence Cooperation. Indonesia welcomed India’s proposal to form a Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee aimed at advancing technology transfer, joint research and development, certification harmonisation, and supply-chain linkages.
Progress in joint drills reviewed
Progress in joint exercises — Super Garuda Shield, Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti, MILAN, and upcoming air manoeuvre drills — was reviewed, alongside plans to expand officer exchanges and training programmes.
Both nations reiterated support for a just and lasting peace in Palestine. Indonesia reaffirmed readiness to contribute peacekeeping personnel to Gaza under a UN mandate. India also announced the gifting of horses and a ceremonial carriage from the Indian Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps.
The Ministers expressed satisfaction with the outcomes and committed to sustained high-level engagement to promote peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region.
