India and US Sign Landmark 10-Year Defence Framework to Boost Strategic Partnership

India and US Forge Historic 10-Year Defence Pact to Enhance Global Security

In a historic stride towards strengthening global security, India and the United States formalized a comprehensive 10-year defence framework in October 2025. This landmark pact, signed in Kuala Lumpur by Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, marks a significant milestone in bilateral relations, emphasising increased military cooperation, regional stability, and strategic cooperation. As geopolitical tensions and regional challenges persist, this agreement is set to redefine the strategic landscape of the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

Strengthening India-US Military Ties

The two nations’ renewed defence partnership signifies a long-term commitment to collaborate more closely on various military fronts. The pact includes expanding joint military exercises, intelligence sharing, and defence R&D initiatives. It aims to foster greater coordination on counter-terrorism, maritime security, and joint military operations, directly contributing to regional stability and deterrence against common threats. The agreement demonstrates an evolving strategic landscape where India and the US are forging a resilient partnership to counterbalance regional adversaries such as China and other emerging security challenges.

Focus on Regional Stability and Indo-Pacific Security

The Indo-Pacific region has become a focal point of the new defence framework. Both India and the US aim to reinforce a free, open, and rules-based regional order amidst growing assertiveness by China and other regional actors. The pact emphasises deepening security cooperation with allies and regional partners, projecting power and influence to maintain regional stability. It underlines the importance of a collective approach to security, with initiatives like joint patrols, technical exchanges, and shared intelligence operations that enhance the deterrence capabilities of both nations.

Defence Modernisation and Industrial Collaboration

A central feature of this agreement is the focus on defence industrial cooperation. It encourages joint development, co-production, and technology transfer, aligning with India’s ‘Make in India’ initiative. The partnership seeks to develop indigenous defence capabilities, reduce dependence on imports, and boost domestic manufacturing. This will help India modernise its defence forces, acquire cutting-edge technology, and grow its defence industry, creating new economic opportunities and strategic resilience.

Economic and Geopolitical Implications

The 10-year framework is expected to bring significant economic benefits through joint ventures and defence exports, strengthening India-US economic ties. It also sends a powerful message to regional rivals, especially China, about the strength and unity of the India-US alliance. This cooperation reflects a shared vision of regional dominance and the promotion of a stable Indo-Pacific, which is crucial for global economic stability and geopolitical balance.

Addressing Challenges and Future Outlook

Despite its potential, the agreement comes amid ongoing trade tensions and tariffs between the two nations. However, the importance of strategic cooperation in security matters has outweighed economic disagreements, signalling a long-term commitment to shared interests. Both countries recognize the need to balance diplomatic, economic, and military priorities to sustain their partnership.

Final Thoughts

The new 10-year defence framework between India and the US signifies a transformative period in bilateral relations. It emphasises strategic security, regional stability, and defence industrial cooperation, promising to reshape the security architecture of the Indo-Pacific region. As geopolitical dynamics evolve, this agreement cements their position as key players committed to a secure, prosperous, and stable future, influencing global security for years ahead.