Defence Minister Rajnath Singh held a bilateral meeting with United States Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on Wednesday on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in the Philippines, reviewing progress under the 10-year India-US Defence Framework.
The discussions focused on strengthening bilateral defence cooperation and advancing strategic convergence in military technology, information sharing and the co-production of defence equipment.
In a social media post following the meeting, Singh described the discussions as productive and reiterated the importance of the India-US partnership in promoting a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific region. <Cite refs={[“turn994498view0″,”turn994498search9”]}/>
Focus on Technology and Defence Cooperation
The 10-year India-US Defence Framework, signed in October 2025, provides a roadmap for expanding cooperation across a wide range of defence-related areas. It aims to strengthen coordination between the two countries and encourage collaboration in defence technology, industrial partnerships and information exchange.
The latest meeting provided an opportunity for both sides to review progress under the framework and explore ways to deepen their strategic relationship amid evolving regional and international security challenges.
The framework reflects the continuing efforts of India and the United States to strengthen their defence partnership through cooperation in military capabilities, technology development and engagement with regional partners.
Both countries have expanded defence ties over the years through military exercises, technology collaboration and agreements designed to facilitate cooperation between their armed forces.
Rajnath Singh Attends ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus
Singh is leading the Indian delegation at the 13th ADMM-Plus meeting in Cebu, Philippines, scheduled for October 28 and 29.
The multilateral forum brings together defence ministers from ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners, including India, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand.
ADMM-Plus serves as a platform for dialogue and practical cooperation on regional security, defence engagement and shared strategic concerns.
India’s participation reflects its continuing engagement with Southeast Asian countries and other regional partners on issues relating to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Meeting with Australian Defence Minister
On the sidelines of the gathering, Singh also met Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles.
The two leaders discussed bilateral defence cooperation, military interoperability and regional security challenges. Singh reiterated India’s commitment to its comprehensive strategic partnership with Australia and the shared objective of maintaining a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific. <Cite refs={[“turn994498view0″,”turn994498news3”]}/>
The bilateral engagements form part of India’s broader diplomatic outreach during the ADMM-Plus meeting, providing opportunities to review existing partnerships and explore avenues for further cooperation.
The discussions with the United States and Australia underscore the importance India places on defence diplomacy and collaboration with regional partners amid changing security dynamics.
Source: Akashvani News; Ministry of Defence.
