India and the US have signed a framework agreement to expand defence cooperation over the next 10 years. The pact was announced after a meeting between US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and his Indian counterpart Rajnath Singh in Kuala Lumpur. The agreement will enhance 'coordination, information sharing and tech cooperation' and advance 'regional stability and deterrence', Hegseth said on X.
The announcement comes as the two countries are working to finalize a trade deal, trying to navigate tense relations after the US imposed tariffs on Indian goods, including a 25% penalty for purchasing Russian oil and arms.
The agreement is expected to provide policy direction for India-US defence relations. Singh emphasized that this is a signal of growing strategic convergence and marks a new decade of partnership, stressing that defence will remain a key pillar of bilateral ties. He also highlighted the significance of their partnership in ensuring a free and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.
Pramit Pal Chaudhuri of the Eurasia Group think tank noted that the deal was delayed due to India’s concerns over Trump's remarks regarding his influence on the conflict resolution with Pakistan. This pact is part of a series of agreements designed to improve military interoperability, enhance India’s technological capabilities, and foster cooperation between the two nations' defence sectors.
Recent months have seen an uptick in defence discussions between India and the US, particularly during Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi's visits where military equipment sales were a major topic. Despite ongoing reliance on discounted Russian arms, India is diversifying its defence procurement strategy.
As both nations engage in high-stakes trade negotiations aiming for an agreement by November, this defence pact underscores their commitment to a robust bilateral relationship amidst economic challenges.
