General Upendra Dwivedi Concludes Visit to Australia, Strengthens Defence Ties
General Upendra Dwivedi, Chief of the Army Staff, concluded his official visit to Australia from February 16 to 19, 2026. This visit marked a significant advancement in enhancing defence cooperation and strategic alignment between India and Australia.
Throughout his visit, General Dwivedi engaged in extensive discussions with senior officials of the Australian Defence Forces. These dialogues explored current bilateral engagements and sought ways to expand army-to-army cooperation. Emphasis was placed on increasing the complexity and scope of joint exercises, deepening exchanges in professional military education, and enhancing interoperability between the two armies.
In Sydney, the General met with leaders from the Forces Command, Special Operations Command, and the 2nd Division of the Australian Army. These interactions allowed both sides to exchange views on readiness, operational concepts, and training methodologies. Particular attention was given to enriching the upcoming Exercise AUSTRAHIND, which is set to take place in India in 2026.
In Canberra, General Dwivedi received a ceremonial Guard of Honour before engaging in meaningful talks with the Chief of the Australian Army. Both leaders, sharing an alumni connection from the US Army War College (Class of 2015), reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening institutional ties. A comprehensive discussion at the ADF Headquarters focused on force modernization, emerging technologies, and future operational environments. The COAS also addressed officers at the Australian Command and Staff College and interacted with the leadership of the Australian Defence College, highlighting adaptive leadership, joint efforts, and multinational cooperation.
During his engagements, General Dwivedi met with the Chief of Defence Forces and the Secretary of the Department of Defence. He visited Headquarters Joint Operations Command to review Australia’s integrated, multi-domain operational framework. Additionally, he laid a wreath at the Australian War Memorial, honoring fallen soldiers, and met with Indian defence veterans residing in Australia, reinforcing longstanding ties with the veteran community.
The visit invigorated India–Australia defence relations, fortified professional connections at the senior leadership level, and emphasized the mutual commitment of both countries to contribute to peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
