India’s Increasing Military Footprint

India is making bold strides in military diplomacy, marking its presence in key regions worldwide. In a significant move, the country is dispatching defence attachés to Mozambique, the Ivory Coast, the Philippines, and Armenia for the first time. The strategic deployment underscores India's focus on bolstering ties in Africa and beyond.

This proactive step, linked to recent weapon sales and key bilateral agreements, holds significant implications, particularly given China's assertive actions in the African continent. India's expanding military presence in Africa aligns with its broader engagement across trade, investment, education, and defence sectors. This effort also complements India's advocacy for the African Union's inclusion in the G20, demonstrating India's dedication to the region's prosperity and stability.

The decision to rationalise resources, such as reducing military officials in missions like Russia and the UK, frees up officers for deployment in regions of heightened strategic importance. For example, the redirection of officers to Poland signifies India's recognition of the country's rising significance as a security partner in Europe.

In nations such as Russia and the US, defence attachés extend their roles beyond representation, facilitating arms acquisitions and shaping military cooperation. Conversely, in adversarial nations like China and Pakistan, their pivotal role involves intelligence gathering and monitoring military developments closely. This strategic deployment not only bolsters India's diplomatic presence but also holds the potential to stimulate military cooperation and arms sales. As African states undergo military modernization, India's presence through defence attachés conveys a message of partnership and readiness for engagement.