Washington, DC: The United States and India have signed a 10-year defence framework agreement, aimed at strengthening strategic cooperation, regional stability, and deterrence, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth announced on Friday.
Framework Strengthens Defence Partnership
Hegseth described the pact as a “cornerstone for regional stability”, enhancing coordination, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration between the two countries. He confirmed the development on X after his meeting with Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.
This marks the first in-person meeting between the two leaders since Washington imposed 50% tariffs on Indian exports in August, in retaliation for New Delhi’s purchase of Russian oil.
Trade Tensions and Defence Ties
Following the tariffs, India paused purchases of US defence equipment, creating temporary friction between the allies. Officials said Friday’s meeting also focused on reviewing India’s pending defence procurement plans and finding ways to resume arms cooperation.
“We have held telephonic conversations thrice. I am delighted to meet you in person at the ADMM-Plus,” Singh said, according to ANI. “I believe a new chapter begins today with the signing of the Defence Framework. Under your leadership, India-US relations will further strengthen.”
Broader Indo-Pacific Context
The agreement comes as Washington intensifies efforts to counter China’s growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region. During his visit, Hegseth is expected to hold meetings with the defence ministers of Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, according to a senior US official.
Delegations from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Russia are also attending the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Indonesia.
