Strengthening Indo-Pacific Security India and the US Launch Ambitious Defence Roadmap

India and the United States have cemented their strategic partnership by signing a landmark ten-year defense framework, establishing a clear roadmap for deeper military collaboration. The agreement was finalised on Friday in Malaysia by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and his American counterpart, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus).

This pivotal agreement is designed to enhance security cooperation between the two nations over the next decade. Speaking after the signing, Minister Singh remarked that the pact marks the beginning of a new era in the bilateral relationship. He expressed confidence that the strategic ties between New Delhi and Washington would continue to strengthen.

Echoing this sentiment, Secretary Hegseth described the framework as an ambitious and significant step forward for both militaries. He emphasised that the US-India relationship is one of the most consequential in the world, built upon a foundation of mutual trust and shared interests. The US Defence Secretary highlighted that the pact underscores a joint commitment to maintaining a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region, a goal that has become increasingly critical amid China’s growing influence.

The strengthened defense alignment comes at a time when other aspects of the India-US relationship have faced challenges, particularly concerning trade tariffs imposed by the Trump administration. However, officials from both sides have consistently maintained that disagreements in the economic sphere will not derail their progress on shared security objectives. This new framework serves as a powerful testament to that commitment, signalling a long-term American pledge to mutual security and a robust partnership with India.