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US-India Defence Breakthrough: 10-Year Pact Signals New Strategic Era

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth have signed a groundbreaking 10-year defence partnership framework. The agreement was finalized during their meeting in Kuala Lumpur on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting. Both leaders described this as a significant step that will usher in a new era of strengthened defence cooperation. The framework will provide policy direction for the entire spectrum of US-India defence relations and enhance regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.

Key Points: Rajnath Singh Pete Hegseth Sign US India Defence Framework

  • Historic 10-year defence framework signed during ASEAN meeting sidelines
  • Agreement covers entire spectrum of defence cooperation and technology sharing
  • Both ministers emphasize partnership critical for Indo-Pacific stability
  • Framework signals growing strategic convergence between the two nations
  • Defence partnership serves as major pillar of bilateral relations
  • Enhanced coordination and information sharing between military forces
2 min read

Rajnath Singh, US War Secretary Hegseth sign 10-year 'Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership'

Defence ministers sign 10-year US-India defence partnership framework in Kuala Lumpur, strengthening strategic ties and Indo-Pacific security cooperation.

"This will usher in a new era in our already strong defence partnership - Rajnath Singh"

Kuala Lumpur, Oct 31

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday met US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur, where the two leaders signed a 10-year ‘Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership’ heralding a new era in deepening the defence ties between the two nations.

The bilateral engagement was held on the sidelines of the 12th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), scheduled to begin on November 1.

“Had a fruitful meeting with my US counterpart Secretary of War Pete Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur. We signed the 10 years ‘Framework for the US-India Major Defence Partnership’. This will usher in a new era in our already strong defence partnership,” Singh posted on X following the meeting.

“This Defence Framework will provide policy direction to the entire spectrum of the India-US Defence Relationship. It is a signal of our growing strategic convergence and will herald a new decade of partnership,” the post added.

Singh emphasised that defence would continue to serve as a major pillar of India-US bilateral relations, noting that partnership is critical for ensuring a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region.

Sharing details of his talks with the Indian Defence Minister, Hegseth posted on X, “I just met with Rajnath Singh to sign a 10-year US-India Defence Framework. This advances our defence partnership, a cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence. We're enhancing our coordination, info sharing, and tech cooperation. Our defence ties have never been stronger.”

Earlier on Thursday, Singh arrived in Malaysia on a two-day visit to attend the ADMM-Plus. He was received at Subang Airbase by India’s High Commissioner to Malaysia, B.N. Reddy.

The 12th ADMM-Plus, being held in Kuala Lumpur, will feature discussions among ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners, including India, the US, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand.

The Defence Minister is expected to address the forum on the theme 'Reflection on 15 Years of ADMM-Plus and Charting the Way Forward.'

During his visit, Singh will also hold bilateral meetings with defence ministers and senior leadership from participating nations.

- IANS

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
While I appreciate the strategic importance, I hope this doesn't compromise our traditional non-aligned policy. We should maintain our strategic autonomy and not become too dependent on any single partner.
R
Rohit P
Great move! This partnership will help counter Chinese aggression in the region. The timing is perfect given the current geopolitical situation. Jai Hind! 🚀
S
Sarah B
As someone who follows international relations closely, this is a game-changer for regional stability. The info sharing and tech cooperation mentioned will be crucial for both nations' security interests.
V
Vikram M
Hope this leads to more technology transfer and joint manufacturing in India. We need to build our domestic defense industry through such partnerships. Make in India should be the focus!
M
Michael C
The ASEAN platform for this announcement shows India's growing diplomatic reach. Smart move to announce this in a multilateral forum rather than bilaterally. Shows we're playing at the global stage now.

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