Australia, India step up defence ties

Australia and India are stepping up defence ties, holding naval exercises and launching new partnerships in defence science, peacekeeping and countering terrorist bombs.

In a joint communique, Defence Minister Kevin Andrews and his Indian counterpart Manohar Parrikar said they wanted to broaden and deepen the defence relationship.

Given common interest in the Indian Ocean and its importance to regional and global trade, maritime security will remain a central component of the bilateral defence relationship, the ministers said following Mr Andrews' visit to India this week.

Australia and India have talked much about lifting defence links but little has occurred until now, with the first major joint naval exercise to be held off India later this month.

This type of exercise will occur every two years.

As well, the Australian navy will participate in the Indian Navy International Fleet Review next February while India will attend the air combat Exercise Pitch Black next year.

There'll also be an exchange of letters on defence science cooperation, a partnership between peacekeeping centres and cooperation on countering improvised explosive devices.

Mr Andrews and Mr Parrikar said this would further strengthen the defence relationship.

"The long-term objective is to develop a significant defence and security relationship. This will be important as we respond to shared challenges and work together to ensure a secure and stable region," they said.