The recent appointment of New Zealand’s First Resident Defence Advisor to India highlights the deepening partnership between the two countries. Commodore Andy Dowling from the Royal New Zealand Navy has been assigned to the New Zealand High Commission in New Delhi for a three-year term starting in late January 2026. This move signifies India’s increasing focus on defense collaboration and strategic relations under the Act East Policy.
Dowling’s appointment as New Zealand’s inaugural full-time Defence Advisor to India is expected to enhance mutual understanding and explore potential areas of cooperation between the two nations. Notably, Dowling pointed out similarities between the naval operations of the two countries, particularly in air operations and sea refueling capabilities. He emphasized the common structures and capabilities shared by the two navies.
The appointment of Dowling follows significant developments in the bilateral relationship, including the unveiling of a major Free Trade Agreement between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and New Zealand Prime Minister Christopher Luxon. Moreover, the Royal New Zealand Navy’s involvement in a counternarcotics task force in the Western Indian Ocean, where the Indian Navy played a key role, further underscores the strengthening ties between the two maritime forces.
During the RNZN frigate HMNZS Te Kaha’s port call in Mumbai, coinciding with Luxon’s visit to India, discussions were held with PM Modi, culminating in the signing of a defense cooperation agreement. Luxon reiterated New Zealand’s commitment to collaborating with India on shared concerns and contributions to ensure a stable and prosperous region. PM Modi echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the deepening collaboration in areas such as counterterrorism and a shared vision for a free, open, secure, and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.
