The United States and India have signed a 10-year defense cooperation agreement aimed at bolstering security in the Indo-Pacific, even as the two nations navigate significant trade disagreements, including recent U.S. tariffs on Indian goods.
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Indian Defense Minister Rajnath Singh formally inked the decade-long framework agreement on October 31, 2025. The signing followed a joint meeting held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
Secretary Hegseth stated the pact will enhance coordination, information sharing, and technological cooperation. He added it would promote stability and deterrence across the Indo-Pacific region, guiding long-term security policy for both countries.
Minister Singh hailed the agreement as a sign of deeper strategic cooperation, marking a new era of partnership. He emphasized that defense cooperation is vital for maintaining a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific.
This defense accord comes amid ongoing trade friction between Washington and New Delhi. The two economic partners have been working to negotiate a new trade agreement.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump previously announced a 50% tariff increase on various Indian imports. Additionally, a 25% penalty was levied for India’s purchases of oil and weapons from Russia.
Current negotiations are underway for a comprehensive new trade deal. Officials anticipate reaching a resolution by November.