India’s Defense Minister Rajnath Singh and U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth reviewed progress under their countries’ 10-year defense framework during a meeting in Cebu, Philippines, on October 28, 2026. The discussions took place on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), which brings together Southeast Asian nations and their dialogue partners.
The two officials assessed efforts to deepen strategic cooperation in advanced military technologies, information sharing, and the joint production of defense equipment. They also exchanged views on developments in the Indo-Pacific and changing regional security conditions. India and the United States signed the framework in October 2025 to establish a long-term roadmap for expanding their defense partnership.
Singh described the meeting as excellent, emphasizing that the partnership remains important to maintaining a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific. Hegseth also highlighted the first anniversary of the defense framework and discussed opportunities to expand collaboration.
The partnership builds on several agreements established over the past decade. The United States designated India a Major Defense Partner around 2016, opening avenues for greater access to sensitive military technology. The countries signed the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016, followed by the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) in 2018. In October 2020, they concluded the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA), which supports the sharing of geospatial information and strengthens military cooperation.
Despite ongoing diplomatic strains during the Trump administration, defense engagement has continued. Singh also met Australian Deputy Prime Minister Richard Marles to review bilateral defense cooperation, improve military interoperability, and discuss regional security challenges. He reaffirmed India’s commitment to its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Australia and a secure Indo-Pacific region.
