India and Indonesia Co-Chair 3rd Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in New Delhi
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh and Minister of Defense of Indonesia Mr Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin co-chaired the third India-Indonesia Defence Ministers’ Dialogue in New Delhi on November 27, 2025. The meeting reaffirmed the long-standing strategic partnership between the two countries and aimed to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation.
Reaffirming Strategic Partnership
The Ministers recalled the visit of President of Indonesia Mr Prabowo Subianto to India as the Chief Guest of Republic Day Celebrations 2025. They noted that the discussions between Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and President Subianto during the visit contributed to deepening the India-Indonesia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The Ministers also highlighted the participation of 352 personnel from the Indonesian Armed Forces in the Republic Day events.
Key Outcomes and Highlights
Strategic Outlook on Indo-Pacific Peace and Security
India and Indonesia emphasized the importance of maintaining a free, open, peaceful, stable, and prosperous Indo-Pacific, guided by international law and respect for sovereignty. The Ministers noted that the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific and India’s Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative share fundamental principles. Indonesia recognized India as a key partner in promoting peace and cooperation in the region. Both sides agreed to strengthen collaboration through multilateral frameworks such as the Indian Ocean Rim Association under India’s chairmanship. They also committed to enhancing practical cooperation in maritime domain awareness, cyber resilience, and joint operational readiness.
Defence Cooperation and Industry Collaboration
The Dialogue reaffirmed the strong foundation of bilateral defence cooperation, including the Defence Cooperation Agreement and the work of the Joint Defence Cooperation Committee. Indonesia welcomed India’s proposal to establish a Joint Defence Industry Cooperation Committee to strengthen collaboration in areas such as technology transfer, joint research and development, certification harmonisation, and supply-chain linkages.
Military-to-Military Engagements
India and Indonesia noted the progress in joint exercises across land, maritime, and air forces, including Super Garuda Shield, Garuda Shakti, Samudra Shakti, MILAN, and upcoming Air Manoeuvre Exercises. Both countries agreed to continue officer exchanges, joint training programs, and visits to defence education institutions to promote interoperability and knowledge sharing.
Maritime Security and Multilateral Cooperation
The Ministers reaffirmed their commitment to maritime security, including coordination in the Indian Ocean. Indonesia acknowledged India’s initiatives and highlighted the importance of cooperation within ASEAN-led structures such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus.
Defence Technology, Submarine Capability, and Medical Cooperation
India’s experience in submarine development and supply-chain management, including Scorpene-class programs, was recognized as valuable for Indonesia’s future plans. The two countries also discussed collaboration in defence medicine and pharmaceuticals, covering joint research, technology transfer, and training programs to enhance military health resilience.
Support for International Peace and Humanitarian Efforts
Both countries reaffirmed their commitment to a just and lasting peace in Palestine. They discussed opportunities for cooperation in humanitarian assistance, post-conflict reconstruction, and multilateral peace efforts. Indonesia confirmed its readiness to contribute peacekeeping personnel to Gaza under a UN mandate.
Additional Initiatives
India announced the gifting of horses and a ceremonial carriage to Indonesia from the Indian Army’s Remount Veterinary Corps. Both Ministers expressed satisfaction with the outcomes of the Dialogue and emphasized the importance of continuing high-level exchanges, practical cooperation, and structured management across multiple areas of defence and security to support peace, stability, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region.