This report reviews the evolution of Russia’s strategic and defence engagement in the IndAsPac. It also critically reviews Russia’s regional defence strategy, including threats perceptions, and principal vectors of regional engagement, predominantly through its active defence diplomacy.

This paper considers the driving geopolitical, economic and strategic forces behind Russia’s current strategic fixation with the Asia – Pacific – Indian Ocean region and provides some key recommendations for Australian policymakers. In mid-November 2011, Australian Prime Minister Julia Gillard held talks with Russian President Dmitry Medvedev in Honolulu during the 2011 Asia–Pacific Economic Cooperation...