U.S. and India Sign 10 Year Defense Pact, Marking New Phase in Strategic Ties
WASHINGTON / NEW DELHI — The United States and India have signed a 10-year defense cooperation agreement, a move both sides hailed as a milestone in their strategic partnership and a vital framework for regional stability, according to “The News”.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the deal Friday following a meeting with Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting Plus (ADMM-Plus).
In a post on X, Hegseth described the framework as “a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence,” emphasizing that it will expand coordination, intelligence sharing, and defense technology collaboration between the two democracies.
The pact represents a significant reset in bilateral defense ties after months of tension. Relations had cooled when Washington imposed 50 percent tariffs on Indian exports in August, in response to New Delhi’s continued purchases of Russian oil. India subsequently paused defense procurements from the U.S., casting uncertainty over planned equipment deals.
“We have spoken three times by phone, but I’m pleased to meet you in person today,” Singh said, according to India’s ANI news agency. “With the signing of this Defense Framework, I believe a new chapter begins. Under your leadership, our partnership will grow even stronger.”
The agreement is expected to enhance military interoperability and streamline defense production, part of a broader push by Washington to bolster alliances across the Indo-Pacific as China’s influence expands.
During his regional visit, Hegseth is also scheduled to meet with defense ministers from Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand, among others, to discuss security coordination. Delegations from Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, and Russia are also attending the ADMM-Plus summit.
The 10-year pact underscores a shared strategic goal: ensuring an open, secure, and rules based Indo-Pacific where Washington and New Delhi increasingly find their interests aligned. (Photo Courtesy X)
