By Reshma Pasupuleti 
Kuala Lumpur, October 2025:
India and the United States have signed a 10-year defence framework agreement to boost military and strategic cooperation. The signing took place in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Peter Hegseth.
This deal is expected to shape a new phase of India-US defence relations, focusing on technology sharing, regional security, and long-term stability.
A Milestone in India-US Defence Ties
Speaking after the signing, Rajnath Singh said the agreement will guide future collaboration across all areas of defence.
“It signals our growing strategic convergence and will herald a new decade of partnership,” he said.
According to him, this pact will strengthen joint operations, defence innovation, and ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific.
US Says Defence Partnership ‘Stronger Than Ever’
Peter Hegseth called the agreement a landmark step in defence cooperation.
“Our partnership has never been stronger,” he said. “Together, we are improving coordination, intelligence sharing, and advanced technology exchange.”
The two leaders shared the update on X (formerly Twitter), describing the pact as a foundation for stability and deterrence in the region.
In addition, both sides agreed to continue regular high-level military dialogues.
Background: Ongoing Diplomatic Engagements
This pact follows a meeting between External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio at the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur.
During that meeting, both nations emphasized the importance of a rules-based Indo-Pacific and stronger economic and defence partnerships.
Trade Tensions Continue
However, the signing comes amid trade friction between India and the US.
President Donald Trump recently raised tariffs on Indian imports to 50%, citing trade imbalances and India’s oil purchases from Russia.
India responded firmly, saying it would protect national interests while keeping diplomatic channels open.
Despite this, both sides remain committed to strengthening defence and strategic ties.
Strategic Importance of the 10-Year Pact
The new framework will act as a roadmap for defence cooperation in the coming decade.
It focuses on joint military exercises, co-development of technologies, and greater information sharing.
Therefore, the agreement aligns with India’s Make in India initiative and the goal of self-reliant defence manufacturing.
In the long run, analysts believe this partnership will support peace, regional stability, and innovation in both countries.