India, US ink defence agreement as tariff dispute lingers

India and the United States have signed a 10-year framework agreement aimed at expanding defence cooperation, technology sharing, and regional security coordination. 

US Defence Secretary Hegseth described the pact as a step toward advancing regional stability and deterrence, while Rajnath Singh called it a reflection of “growing strategic convergence” and a key pillar of the India-US partnership in ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific region. 

Analysts view the accord as a framework providing long term policy direction to the entire spectrum of bilateral defence relations.

The announcement followed a meeting between US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in Kuala Lumpur.The agreement seeks to deepen military coordination, enhance information exchange, and promote technological collaboration between the two nations.

According to Pramit Pal Chaudhuri of the Eurasia Group, the deal had been delayed earlier this year due to India’s displeasure over remarks by US President Donald Trump about mediating between India and Pakistan. 

The pact, however, builds upon previous defence agreements that have improved interoperability between the two militaries and enabled India to access advanced US technology, opening further opportunities for joint defence production and innovation.

The signing comes amid strained trade relations between the two countries, with Washington imposing high tariffs on Indian goods and penalizing India for purchasing Russian oil and weapons. 

Despite these tensions, both sides are working toward a trade deal by November. While Russia remains a key arms supplier for India, its share has been declining as New Delhi increasingly diversifies defence imports and explores greater cooperation with the United States.