India and AUKUS to explore potential for technology cooperation

India and the AUKUS partnership of Australia, UK, and US are in informal exploratory conversations on emerging technologies like artificial intelligence, electronic warfare, and cyber technologies, sources revealed. The AUKUS partnership, established in 2021, aims to deter China and is known for its collaboration on nuclear-powered submarines.

The AUKUS nations are interested in collaborating with India due to its strong scientific research and development capabilities, although no formal dialogue has taken place yet. The partnership focuses on transferring and jointly developing crucial defense and emerging technologies, with two main pillars.

While New Delhi has not taken a clear stance on the AUKUS partnership, it supported the partnership against attempts by Russia and China to derail it at the International Atomic Energy Association last year. This support may pave the way for potential cooperation with AUKUS in the future.

US President Joe Biden, Australian PM Anthony Albanese, and UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak recently announced a roadmap for Australia to acquire and operate nuclear-powered submarines. This initiative is expected to enhance the military capabilities of the US and its partners in countering China’s military ambitions in the Indo-Pacific region.

Formal cooperation with AUKUS could be a significant symbolic move for Indian foreign policy, showcasing a united front against Chinese military expansion. However, some experts are skeptical about the benefits of technology cooperation with AUKUS for India, citing concerns about participating in formal military alliances. Despite differing opinions, the potential collaboration between India and AUKUS highlights the evolving dynamics of global security partnerships.