General Upendra Dwivedi's Australia Visit to Strengthen India-Australia Defence Ties
General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), will undertake an official visit to Australia from February 16 to 19, 2026. This visit aims to enhance the defense partnership between India and Australia, highlighting the increasing strategic alignment between the two countries.
During his stay, General Dwivedi will engage in detailed discussions with the senior leadership of the Australian Defence Forces (ADF). The meetings will focus on strengthening army-to-army relations through joint training programs, bilateral exercises, professional exchanges, and initiatives for capacity building. In Sydney, he will meet senior officials from Forces Command (FORCOMD), Special Operations Command (SOCOMD), and the 2nd Division. These units are regular participants in the bilateral Exercise AUSTRAHIND, which is slated to take place in India later in 2026.
In Canberra, General Dwivedi will receive a ceremonial welcome and a Guard of Honour. This will be followed by discussions with Lieutenant General Simon Stuart, the Chief of the Australian Army. Both army chiefs are alumni of the US Army War College, class of 2015, sharing a notable professional connection. Their meeting will be succeeded by a round-table discussion at the Australian Defence Forces Headquarters, focusing on defense cooperation, modernization, and future military operations. The COAS will also meet with the Commander of the Australian Defence College and address officers at the Australian Command and Staff College.
As part of the high-level interactions, the COAS will meet the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and the Secretary of the Department of Defence. He will visit the Headquarters Joint Operations Command (HQJOC) to understand the operational dynamics of the ADF, including integrated and multi-domain operations. Additionally, he will lay a wreath at the Australian War Memorial in tribute to fallen soldiers and connect with Indian defense veterans living in Australia, highlighting the lasting bond between the Indian Armed Forces and its veteran community.
This visit emphasizes the mutual commitment of India and Australia to enhance their defense collaboration and contribute to peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region, reflecting the strengthening strategic partnership between the two democracies.
