India's Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has stated that defence cooperation with Indonesia remains a critical pillar of the bilateral relationship, with discussions currently at a preparatory stage. The clarification came amid questions regarding additional supplies of BrahMos missiles. Simultaneously, the MEA expressed optimism that ongoing talks with Australia would lead to the implementation of a bilateral nuclear supply agreement, potentially enabling uranium imports.
Defence Cooperation with Indonesia in Early Stages
During a special briefing on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Indonesia, Australia, and New Zealand, MEA Secretary (East) Rubendra Tandon addressed queries on defence ties with Indonesia. Tandon emphasized that while defence cooperation is a vital component of the relationship, detailed discussions have not yet progressed beyond preliminary stages.
"Defence cooperation is an important part of the relationship with Indonesia. I don't think we need to go into the details of this at this juncture, particularly since we haven't even departed from here and all these are at preparatory stages," Tandon stated.
Optimism on Uranium Supply from Australia
On the question of uranium supplies from Australia, Joint Secretary (Oceania) Vishwesh Negi noted that India and Australia have a bilateral nuclear supply agreement that has remained unimplemented for several years. However, recent conversations between the two sides have been substantive and forward-looking.
"On the question of the supply of uranium, we are aware that India and Australia have a bilateral nuclear supply agreement. However, it has not been implemented for the last few years. And in recent times, there have been very substantive, forward-looking conversations between the two sides. And I think there is a hope that there will be a logical conclusion to the discussions," Negi said.
BrahMos Missile Gains International Attention
The remarks come as the BrahMos supersonic cruise missile, jointly developed by India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) and Russia's NPO Mashinostroyenia (NPOM), continues to draw global interest. The missile system has seen export success and operational deployment, positioning it as a key defence export prospect for India. New Delhi aims to expand its footprint in the global arms market while strengthening indigenous defence manufacturing under the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
PM Modi's Three-Nation Visit
Prime Minister Narendra Modi will embark on a three-nation visit from July 8 to July 11, 2026. The itinerary includes Indonesia on July 8-9, Australia on July 10, and New Zealand on July 11. In Indonesia, the focus will be on reviewing the bilateral partnership. In Australia, PM Modi will participate in the third India-Australia Annual Summit. His visit to New Zealand marks the first by an Indian Prime Minister in forty years.
