CDS General Anil Chauhan’s visit to Australia: Discussion on shared security issues

Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan visited the historic Victoria Barracks on the last day of his four-day official visit to Australia. This visit was the first visit of an Indian Chief of Defence Staff to Australia. During this, he met with the senior leadership of the Australian Department of Defence and Defence Force. He also visited Force Command Headquarters, Australian Defence College and Lowy Institute.

Gen Chauhan departed from New Delhi on March 4 and sought to strengthen bilateral military ties during his visit till March 7. He held talks with Australia’s Chief of Defence Force Admiral David Johnston and senior defence leaders. He was received by Royal Australian Navy Deputy Fleet Commander Commodore Ray Leggatt and visited HMAS Adelaide, which showcases Australia’s naval capabilities.

In meetings with senior defence leaders, practical ideas for long-term defence and security cooperation between the two countries were discussed. General Chauhan was briefed on strategic aspects of the Australian Army and visited the Australian War Memorial to pay homage to fallen heroes.

He was given a Guard of Honour at the Australian Defence Headquarters, symbolising the India-Australia defence partnership. The CDS interacted with Indian student officers at the Australian Defence College to promote bilateral military understanding and professional exchange. The visit reflects India’s commitment to strengthen professional military education ties and capacity building efforts between the two countries.