Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan held a series of high-level meetings in the United Kingdom aimed at strengthening defence cooperation and addressing emerging global security challenges. His discussions with UK Minister of State for Defence Readiness and Industry Luke Pollard focused on the changing nature of modern warfare and the importance of deeper military collaboration between the two nations.
In another key engagement, General Chauhan met UK Minister of State for Indo-Pacific Seema Malhotra to advance the India–UK defence partnership. According to the Headquarters Integrated Defence Staff (HQ IDS), the talks covered the Defence Industrial Roadmap and several technology and security initiatives designed to address evolving challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
Both sides placed strong emphasis on expanding cooperation in critical areas such as cyber security, intelligence sharing, and space capabilities. They also discussed improving information resilience and promoting specialized exchanges between defence institutions. The discussions reaffirmed a shared commitment to building future-ready armed forces and strengthening strategic alignment between India and the UK.
Earlier, CDS Chauhan led a roundtable discussion with senior officials, policy experts, and think tanks on the theme of Indian military transformation, focusing on challenges and opportunities in the evolving security environment. The dialogue highlighted the importance of advanced technologies in modern defence systems and the need for greater integration across industrial, cyber, and intelligence domains.
He also met his UK counterpart, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, during a ceremonial reception in London. Their discussions focused on expanding cooperation in cyber operations, intelligence frameworks, defence manufacturing, and joint military exercises aimed at improving global security and operational readiness.
As part of the visit, General Chauhan interacted with India’s High Commissioner to the UK, Vikram K. Doraiswami, and other senior officials. The visit also included meetings with representatives from the British defence industry to explore opportunities for co-production and deeper industrial collaboration.
The UK Ministry of Defence noted that General Chauhan will also engage with senior military and civilian leaders during his three-day visit and visit the Royal College of Defence Studies. This marks the first official visit by an Indian CDS to the UK, highlighting a significant milestone in India–UK defence relations and reinforcing their shared commitment to global peace, stability, and resilience.
