Top UK Admiral Touches Down in India for Power Defence Talks
The UK’s Chief of the Defence Staff, Admiral Sir Tony Radakin, has arrived in India this week for a packed schedule of high-level meetings. The mission? To boost the military relationship between the two powerhouse nations.
Honouring Heroes and Hammering Out Deals
Sir Tony kicked off his three-day visit by paying tribute to fallen soldiers at India’s National War Memorial on 17 April. He then met with his Indian counterpart, General Anil Chauhan, to review the ongoing UK-India defence partnership.
The two chiefs discussed expanding ties across all military domains. UK and India already collaborate heavily on research, development, and training. Their updated 2019 Memorandum of Understanding on aerospace and industrial collaboration is progressing well, backed by recent visits from UK defence officials, including the Defence Procurement Minister and First Sea Lord.
Top Brass Meet and Military Ties Tighten
Admiral Radakin also held talks with several key Indian military leaders: Admiral Hari Kumar (Navy Chief), General Manoj Pande (Army Chief), Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane, and Additional Secretary Defence Production T Natarajan.
Over the coming days, the UK CDS will visit various Indian Armed Forces installations, aiming to boost military cooperation and explore co-development of future tech.
Defence Chiefs Speak Out: UK-India Security Bond Stronger Than Ever
Ben Wallace, UK Defence Secretary: “India is a valued defence partner for the UK and our relationship continues to flourish across our research and industrial sectors. Both our nations are committed to the stability and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific and we continue to train and operate alongside our Indian partners to promote security in the region.”
Admiral Sir Tony Radakin: “My visit to India reflects the UK’s belief that our security is indivisible from that of the wider world. As a global trading nation, it matters to the UK that the Indo-Pacific remains open and free. That’s why the British Armed Forces are establishing the broadest and most integrated presence in the region of any European nation.
India and the UK are natural partners in a world becoming more contested and volatile. We share democratic values and commitment to the rule of law. Both are respected military powers investing big in modernisation and training across land, sea, and air. But we can do more. I value the opportunity to discuss with General Anil Chauhan how to grow our partnership for mutual security and prosperity.”
Military Drills Send Strong Message
The Royal Navy, British Army, and Royal Air Force are all stepping up joint exercises with Indian counterparts this year. Highlights include:
- HMS Lancaster training alongside Indian Navy in Exercise Konkan at Kochi.
- Indian Air Force pilots flying Mirage 2000 jets during the RAF’s massive Exercise Cobra Warrior in the UK.
- Indian soldiers set to join British counterparts for Exercise Ajeya Warrior later this month in the UK.
The visit coincides with the presence of RAF Chief Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Sir Mike Wigston in India, underscoring the UK’s commitment to a robust defence and security partnership.
Extra Info
- Free photos from Admiral Radakin’s India visit available here.
- The UK refreshed its 2023 Integrated Review on defence to tackle rising global challenges.
- This visit follows numerous UK-India military exchanges since early 2023.
- Earlier, HMS Tamar patrolled the Indian Ocean, calling at key Indian ports including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
- The First Sea Lord, Admiral Sir Ben Key, recently visited India in March, leading UK efforts at the Raisina Dialogue.
