The United States and India are moving toward deeper defence cooperation, reinforced by a long-term agreement signed last year, according to US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor. He recently highlighted the growing strength of bilateral defence ties, stating that the 10-year defence pact is expected to significantly advance the strategic partnership between Washington and New Delhi. His remarks underline the steady momentum in military collaboration, even as trade-related disagreements continue to affect the broader relationship.
In a message shared on X, Gor noted that joint military exercises between the two countries will continue and that additional defence equipment sales are already in progress. He described the partnership as strong and resilient, thanking India’s Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh for hosting engagements linked to defence cooperation. The ambassador’s comments suggested confidence that defence ties remain insulated from economic frictions and political challenges.
Gor’s remarks came shortly after he attended India’s Republic Day parade for the first time, an experience he described as an honour. He referred to the celebration as a reflection of India’s constitutional values and democratic traditions. In particular, he drew attention to the participation of US-manufactured aircraft in the ceremonial flypast, calling it a visible and powerful symbol of the depth of the US-India strategic relationship.
Around the same time, India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with a visiting delegation from the US Congress. Their discussions focused on a wide range of issues, including defence and security cooperation, trade matters, and broader geopolitical concerns. The meeting took place against the backdrop of ongoing trade tensions following Washington’s decision to impose a 50 percent tariff on Indian goods, a move that has strained commercial ties between the two countries.
Despite these challenges, US President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the future of trade relations with India. Speaking at the World Economic Forum in Davos, he praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi and indicated that a trade agreement remains possible. Trump’s remarks suggested that diplomatic engagement could help bridge differences and move negotiations forward.
Overall, recent developments point to a relationship marked by complexity but also durability. While trade disputes continue to test economic cooperation, defence and security ties between the United States and India appear to be growing stronger. The long-term defence pact, combined with regular military engagement and high-level political dialogue, signals that strategic cooperation remains a central pillar of the bilateral relationship.
