A New Era: US-India Strengthen Defense Ties

In a landmark move, India and the United States have formalized a 10-year defense framework agreement, signaling a significant strategic convergence between the two nations. This agreement, which was sealed in Kuala Lumpur, was confirmed by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Defense Secretary Peter Hegseth.

The pact comes amidst efforts to mend ties following the US imposition of a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, which had strained relations. Minister Singh heralded the agreement as heralding a new era in the Indo-US defense relationship, emphasizing its role in providing policy direction across the defense spectrum.

Highlighting the significance of the partnership, Singh affirmed its importance for a free and open Indo-Pacific region. Secretary Hegseth echoed this sentiment, noting that the agreement strengthens defense ties and enhances coordination, information sharing, and technology cooperation between the two countries.