CONVERGENCES AND DIVERGENCES IN INDIA AND AUSTRALIA’S MARITIME SECURITY POLICIES TOWARDS THE INDO-PACIFIC REGION

Abstract: Maritime trade routes within the Indo-Pacific region, a central artery for global trade and geostrategic interests, are witnessing increased maritime security challenges, including inter-state disputes, arms proliferation, terrorist acts, smuggling, piracy, and climate change. Nations in the region have significantly adjusted their maritime security policies in recent years. This article aims to analyze the similarities and differences in the maritime security policies of India and Australia, two key nations that shape the region’s security structure. Marked by a changing geopolitical landscape, India and Australia are enhancing their capabilities, modernizing their naval forces, strengthening maritime cooperation with allies and partners, and promoting a rules-based maritime order. However, the article also demonstrates that the different geostrategic visions, relationships with major powers, and varying capacities of India and Australia lead to differences in their maritime security policies. The article provides prospects on how India and Australia can contribute to the maritime security of the Indo-Pacific region.