JAKARTA, Indonesia (Diya TV) — Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to Indonesia could open a new chapter in India’s ties with Southeast Asia. India and Indonesia are expected to announce several strategic, defense, and economic agreements during the visit. The proposed deals focus on missile systems, critical minerals, maritime infrastructure, and election technology, according to sources familiar with the discussions.
Modi arrived in Jakarta on a three-day visit from July 6 to 8 at the invitation of Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto. Indonesian Air Force fighter jets escorted his aircraft after it entered the country’s airspace. Soon after, President Prabowo welcomed Modi at the airport before a ceremonial reception at the Presidential Palace.
The visit marks Modi’s fourth trip to Indonesia. More importantly, it is the first bilateral visit since India and Indonesia upgraded their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2018. Both countries now aim to deepen cooperation across several key sectors.
Defense remains one of the strongest pillars of the partnership. According to sources, Indonesia plans to import India’s indigenous Astra air-to-air missiles. The reported interest follows India’s demonstration of its missile capabilities during Operation Sindoor. If finalized, the agreement would further strengthen defense ties between the two countries.
In addition, Indonesia wants to expand its inventory of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles. India is expected to support that effort by supplying additional BrahMos missile batteries. The move could further increase defense cooperation and improve regional security collaboration.
Over the past few years, India and Indonesia have steadily expanded military relations. The two countries regularly conduct joint military exercises. They also promote defense industry partnerships and increase security dialogue. As a result, defense cooperation has become an important part of their broader strategic relationship.
Economic cooperation also features prominently during the visit. Sources said India plans to invest in Indonesia’s production of steel, nickel and rare-earth permanent magnets. These investments could strengthen the supply chain for critical minerals. At the same time, they could support industries that depend on advanced manufacturing and clean energy technologies.
Another expected area of cooperation involves election technology. According to sources, India plans to help Indonesia develop electronic voting machines designed for its domestic requirements. The proposal reflects growing institutional cooperation between the two countries. It also highlights India’s experience in conducting large-scale elections.
Maritime cooperation forms another important part of the discussions. Sources said India and Indonesia are preparing to jointly develop Sabang port. The port overlooks the strategic Strait of Malacca and sits about 100 miles from India’s Great Nicobar port project. The location makes it important for regional trade routes and maritime connectivity. Therefore, both countries see the project as a valuable opportunity to strengthen economic and strategic cooperation.
Meanwhile, India’s Ministry of External Affairs described the visit as another milestone in bilateral relations. In a post on X, the ministry said Modi received a grand ceremonial welcome at Istana Merdeka, the Presidential Palace in Jakarta. The ministry added that the visit would create new opportunities for cooperation while reinforcing trust, shared values, and long-standing friendship between the two nations.
