ABSTRACT
The southeastern quadrant of the Indian Ocean, which is dominated by Australia, represents a secondary area of strategic interest for India. India currently has few direct security interests in the area, although this may grow in coming years as its economic relationship with Australia grows. But Australia is a potentially important partner for India's strategic ambitions in the Indian Ocean. After India, it has the most capable navy of any of the Indian Ocean states and is an active security provider in much of the region. India and Australia also share many interests in the Indian Ocean and Southeast Asia and there are considerable opportunities for security cooperation. Although Australia has shown enthusiasm for developing the security relationship, India has been relatively cautious.
