In a major step toward deepening strategic cooperation, the United States and India have signed a 10-year Defence Framework Agreement, marking a new phase in their defence partnership. US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth announced the deal on Friday, emphasizing that “defence ties have never been stronger” between the two nations.
Hegseth confirmed that the framework aims to strengthen coordination, intelligence sharing, and technological collaboration, describing the India-US defence relationship as a “cornerstone for regional stability and deterrence.” The agreement underscores both nations’ shared vision of maintaining peace and balance in the Indo-Pacific region.
The signing took place alongside the ASEAN-India Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting in Kuala Lumpur, where Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh highlighted India’s commitment to strengthening defence and security ties with ASEAN members under the ‘Act East Policy’.