The defense partnership between India and Australia is moving forward with a focus on enhanced undersea surveillance technology. A key development is a joint project aimed at improving the early detection and tracking of submarines and autonomous underwater vehicles.
This initiative is formalized as the first science and technology project arrangement between the Defence Science and Technology Group’s (DSTG) Information Sciences Division and the Defence Research and Development Organisation’s Naval Physical and Oceanographic Laboratory. The three-year project will explore the use of Towed Array Target Motion Analysis to improve the reliability, efficiency, and interoperability of current surveillance capabilities. The project arrangement includes sharing ideas, investigation trials, algorithm demonstrations, and performance analysis.
The need for enhanced undersea surveillance is driven by the changing underwater battlespace, including the increased use of autonomous vehicles. Improving surveillance capabilities is therefore a priority. The research program has the potential to guide the development of future algorithmic directions for undersea combat system surveillance technologies.
This collaboration is the latest step in increasing maritime domain awareness cooperation between Australia and India. Harnessing international partnerships enables access to a greater range of expertise, infrastructure, and technical data to help address mutual problems and deliver innovative technologies. Such partnerships are essential to building new capabilities, innovating at a greater pace, and strengthening strategic partnerships.
The strategic importance of this collaboration is underscored by the increasing maritime threats in the Indo-Pacific, including China's growing naval presence and deployment of dual-use fishing fleets in sensitive waters. India, with its experience in developing indigenous sonar systems since the 1970s, is expected to benefit from Australia's technological support and expertise.
Beyond submarine detection technology, India has offered Australia access to its advanced ship-repairing facilities, including Cochin Shipyard Limited. The shipyard's 6,000-ton ship lift system will provide logistical support for Australian naval vessels operating in the Indian Ocean region. This initiative aims to create an integrated maritime support network between the two countries.
India will also participate as an observer in a military exercise involving Australia and Papua New Guinea. This builds upon previous cooperation through Exercise Austrahind, which focuses on tactical coordination and military-to-military exchange. These engagements reflect a shared commitment to safeguarding common interests across the Indo-Pacific region.
The deepening of India-Australia defense relations reinforces their roles as key players in ensuring peace, stability, and maritime security in the Indo-Pacific. Australia's commitment to regional security and stability is also demonstrated through its annual regional engagement activity, Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE). IPE 2025 encompasses six months of collaborative engagements to foster diplomatic and defense ties with countries across Southeast Asia and the Northeast Indian Ocean. This year's program includes military-to-military and wider government engagements across key areas, including maritime security and law.
