New Delhi: In an exceptional strategic maneuver, India is poised to deploy defense attachés to a selection of distinct nations including Ethiopia, Mozambique, Ivory Coast, the Philippines, Armenia, and Poland, aligning with its intent to fortify strategic alliances amidst escalating global tensions.
Moreover, New Delhi is set to establish a new defense attaché in the small African nation of Djibouti, a key maritime nexus linking the Red Sea and Gulf of Aden, regarded as a highly sought-after strategic locale for military installations, according to insiders. This marks the second time an attaché will be stationed in Djibouti.
New Delhi is also adjusting its military delegation at its Moscow embassy and London high commission, relocating certain defense attachés to different stations. This realignment exemplifies an effort to maximize efficiency in line with New Delhi’s foreign policy objectives and resource management.
Stationing defense attachés in Ethiopia, Mozambique, and Ivory Coast aligns with India’s broader goal to forge meaningful connections with the African continent, a strategic priority, as emphasized by one informant. Various African nations have already demonstrated keen interest in obtaining Indian defense equipment and technology.
In recent times, India has emerged as a principal proponent of the aspirations of the Global South, particularly across the African continent, acting as a counterbalance to China’s burgeoning sway in the region.
The inclusion of the 55-member African Union as a permanent participant in the G20 marked a significant milestone during India’s presidency of the global economic consortium in 2023. Additionally, India aims to bolster defense relations with the Philippines, in response to China’s increasing assertiveness in the South China Sea.
The military rapport between India and the Philippines has seen notable growth in recent years. In January 2022, India secured a $375 million deal with the Philippines for the provision of three missile batteries, with delivery expected to commence soon, according to a source.
India’s appointment of a defense attaché in Armenia responds to the Caucasus nation’s heightened interest in strengthening military cooperation with India. An arms deal completed last year involves the provision of Indian military assets such as multi-barrel rocket launchers to Armenia.
This agreement surfaced amid the conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan over Nagorno-Karabakh. Meanwhile, India’s decision to assign a defense attaché in Poland, an EU member state, is viewed as significant, showcasing a commitment to enhancing bilateral defense partnerships.
In 2023, the European Union appointed its inaugural military attaché to its Indian mission. Soon, 16 Indian defense attachés from the Army, Navy, and Air Force will embark on their new assignments, according to sources.
