New Delhi: Australia and India have unveiled a new strategic framework aimed at strengthening cooperation across cyber security, critical technologies, digital resilience, defence research and resilient supply chains. The initiative, known as the Australia-India Partnership on Cyber, Critical Technologies and Supply Chains (PACTS), marks a significant step in expanding collaboration between the two countries beyond traditional diplomatic engagement.
The new framework succeeds the earlier cyber cooperation arrangement introduced in 2020 and reflects the growing importance both nations place on technology, secure digital ecosystems and trusted global supply networks.
A Broader Vision for Strategic Technology Cooperation
PACTS is designed to bring together government agencies, research institutions, universities and private sector organisations from both countries. The partnership aims to create stronger innovation networks while encouraging responsible technology development, secure digital infrastructure and increased investment in emerging sectors.
Rather than focusing on individual initiatives, the agreement provides a long-term roadmap for collaboration in areas that are becoming increasingly important for economic growth and national security.
Building More Resilient Supply Chains
One of the major priorities under PACTS is strengthening trusted supply chains for critical industries.
Australia and India plan to work together on securing semiconductor supply chains, improving collaboration in critical minerals, supporting technology partnerships and encouraging greater commercial engagement between businesses in both countries.
The framework also highlights cooperation on secure telecommunications infrastructure and efforts to diversify supply networks, helping reduce future disruptions while supporting sustainable industrial growth.
Advancing Critical Technologies Together
Another important pillar of the partnership focuses on emerging technologies that are expected to shape future economies.
The two countries will explore joint opportunities across artificial intelligence, telecommunications, biotechnology, advanced materials, space technologies and digital innovation. Academic institutions, researchers and industry experts are expected to collaborate on projects that encourage innovation while supporting internationally accepted standards and responsible technology deployment.
The agreement also seeks to strengthen commercial partnerships and research initiatives in rapidly growing technology sectors.
Stronger Collaboration on Cyber Security
Cyber security remains one of the central areas of cooperation under PACTS.
Australia and India intend to deepen coordination in tackling cyber threats, protecting critical infrastructure and improving digital safety. The partnership also promotes greater knowledge sharing, capacity building and cooperation between government agencies responsible for cyber policy and digital security.
The framework encourages regular exchanges, workshops and collaborative initiatives aimed at strengthening cyber resilience across both countries.
Digital Resilience and Regional Development
The partnership also places significant emphasis on digital resilience by supporting technology solutions that can benefit the wider Indo-Pacific region.
Both countries aim to encourage the adoption of trusted digital public infrastructure while identifying projects that improve connectivity, education, healthcare, clean energy and digital governance. The initiative also supports collaborative programmes that can help developing economies strengthen their digital capabilities.
Expanding Defence Research Cooperation
PACTS introduces a dedicated pillar focused on defence science and technology collaboration.
Australia and India plan to expand research partnerships, strengthen innovation ecosystems and encourage exchanges between defence research organisations. The cooperation will include work on future technologies, advanced materials, maritime capabilities and other areas aligned with shared strategic interests.
The framework also encourages stronger connections between defence start-ups, researchers and industry to support innovation-driven capability development.
Structured Oversight for Long-Term Implementation
To ensure consistent progress, the partnership establishes a structured governance mechanism led by senior officials from both countries.
Dedicated leads have been identified across each cooperation pillar, allowing both governments to monitor progress, review priorities and identify new opportunities for collaboration as technology and global security requirements continue to evolve.
Looking Ahead
The launch of PACTS reflects the growing strategic relationship between Australia and India as both countries seek to build secure, resilient and innovation-driven partnerships for the future. By expanding cooperation across cyber security, emerging technologies, digital infrastructure and supply chain resilience, the initiative lays the foundation for deeper collaboration that supports economic development, technological advancement and regional stability in the years ahead.
Source: This article is based on an official press release issued by the Press Information Bureau
Press Release Page | Press Information Bureau
