India and New Zealand Expand Defence Cooperation Through Maritime Security and Joint Training

India and New Zealand have agreed to deepen defence cooperation across maritime security, military training and personnel exchanges following the second India-New Zealand Defence Strategic Dialogue, held in Wellington on August 24, 2026.

The talks were co-chaired by Indian Defence Ministry Joint Secretary Amitabh Prasad and New Zealand Ministry of Defence Deputy Secretary Richard Schmidt. Discussions focused on translating the recently elevated bilateral Strategic Partnership into practical defence cooperation under the India-New Zealand Strategic Partnership Roadmap 2030.

Both sides reviewed opportunities to expand joint military training, cross-service personnel exchanges and cooperation between defence staff colleges. Maritime, air and land forces are expected to see greater interaction as the two countries work toward stronger military-to-military engagement.

India and New Zealand also reaffirmed their support for a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, with maritime security emerging as an important area of strategic convergence.

During the visit, the Indian delegation held separate discussions with senior New Zealand Defence Force and Ministry of Defence officials, including the Vice Chief of Defence Force and Commander Joint Forces New Zealand. These meetings explored operational coordination, capability development and exchanges of experience related to defence procurement.

Both countries agreed to maintain the momentum through regular senior-level and ministerial exchanges, positioning defence and security cooperation as an increasingly important pillar of the India-New Zealand relationship.