India and Malaysia to Host Key ADMM-Plus Counter-Terrorism Exercises in 2026 and 2027

Why in the News?

India and Malaysia, as co-chairs of the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Group on Counter-Terrorism (EWG on CT), have announced two major counter-terrorism exercises:

• A table-top exercise in Malaysia in 2026
• A field training exercise in India in 2027

These announcements mark a strategic step in strengthening regional collaboration against terrorism.

ADMM-Plus 2025 Meeting Highlights

The decisions were made during the 14th meeting of the ADMM-Plus EWG on Counter-Terrorism, held in New Delhi, India, on March 19–20, 2025.

Key Objectives of the Meeting

• Develop a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy tailored to evolving threats.
• Facilitate experience sharing among military and defence forces from ASEAN and Plus countries.
• Reinforce regional cooperation to combat extremism and transnational threats.

Leadership Transition

During the event, Myanmar and Russia officially handed over the co-chairmanship of the EWG on CT to India and Malaysia for the 2024–2027 cycle, setting the stage for deeper defence cooperation.

What is ADMM-Plus?

The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) is a strategic platform for dialogue and cooperation between ASEAN member states and eight key Dialogue Partners:

• Australia
• China
• India
• Japan
• New Zealand
• Republic of Korea
• Russia
• United States

Background

• The first ADMM-Plus meeting was held in Hanoi, Vietnam, on October 12, 2010.
• It continues to serve as a vital framework for enhancing defence and security cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.

Core Objectives of ADMM-Plus

1. Capacity Building: Empower ASEAN states to address shared security challenges.
2. Trust Building: Promote mutual confidence and transparency among defence forces.
3. Regional Peace & Stability: Support joint defence initiatives to maintain regional peace.
4. ASEAN Security Community: Aligns with the Bali Concord II to realize the ASEAN Security Community.
5. Strategic Implementation: Supports frameworks like the Vientiane Action Programme for forward-looking security partnerships.

Conclusion

The India-Malaysia partnership in the ADMM-Plus Counter-Terrorism Working Group reflects a strong commitment to regional security, counter-terrorism efforts, and defence cooperation. The upcoming 2026 and 2027 exercises will play a pivotal role in enhancing interoperability, coordination, and strategic preparedness among ADMM-Plus nations.