Australia is stepping up military co-operation with India in a bid to give a four-way partnership with Japan and the US “teeth”, in what sources say is a play to keep Washington engaged amid concerns over China’s growing military might.

Anthony Albanese is expected to sign a major new alliance after touching down in Fiji, as the “permanent contest” with China looms.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has visited the Solomon Islands just as China launches a nuclear-capable ballistic missile in the region.