New Delhi: The visit of Adm Krishna Swaminathan, CNS, to Australia from September 9-11, 2026, was aimed at further strengthening bilateral naval cooperation between the Indian Navy and the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) and advancing the growing India–Australia defence and maritime partnership.
During the visit, the CNS engaged with senior Australian defence and naval leadership, including Adm Mark Hammond, Chief of the Defence Force (CDF), Australia, and VAdm Matthew Buckley, Chief of Navy (CN), RAN. The engagements focused on the growing strategic depth of the India–Australia defence partnership and reviewed progress in bilateral naval cooperation.
In Canberra, the CNS was accorded a warm traditional welcome at the Russell Offices, featuring a Smoking Ceremony reflecting Australia’s Indigenous heritage, followed by a ceremonial Guard of Honour.
During discussions with VAdm Matthew Buckley, the two Chiefs reviewed the progress of bilateral naval cooperation and discussed avenues to further enhance interoperability and operational engagement, including through multiple exercise opportunities in 2027.
The CNS also met with Adm Mark Hammond, CDF, Australia. Discussions focused on advancing the implementation of the Maritime Security Collaboration Roadmap and identifying opportunities to deepen interoperability and cooperation across the maritime domain. The interaction reflected a shared commitment to translating strategic convergence into tangible outcomes that contribute to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
Earlier in the visit, the CNS also interacted with RAdm Anita Williams, Commander Australian Fleet, at HMAS Kuttabul, Sydney. Discussions covered the RAN’s evolving fleet capabilities and future inductions, along with opportunities for enhancing interoperability and operational interaction between the two navies. The CNS was also given a familiarisation tour of HMAS Kuttabul, covering its fleet infrastructure and operational capabilities.
The CNS also addressed course members of the Australian Command and Staff Course at the Australian Defence College, Canberra. In a candid and engaging interaction, he shared perspectives on the evolving maritime and strategic landscape and contemporary security challenges. He highlighted the demands these place on military leaders and underscored the importance of adaptability, professional curiosity and critical thinking.
He also interacted with Indian Defence Forces officers undergoing courses at the College.
During the visit, the CNS, accompanied by VAdm Matthew Buckley, also paid homage at the Australian War Memorial, honouring the memory and sacrifice of those who served.
The visit provided an opportunity to review the progress of ongoing bilateral naval cooperation and identify avenues for further strengthening operational interaction, interoperability and maritime cooperation between India and Australia.
The visit underscores the strong and expanding India–Australia maritime partnership and the commitment of the Indian Navy and Royal Australian Navy to further deepen operational engagement and cooperation, contributing to a secure, stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific.
