India and the United States Sign 10-Year Defence Framework Agreement
(GS Paper II – International Relations | GS Paper III – Defence and Security)
India and the United States have signed a new 10-year Defence Framework Agreement, marking a major milestone in their strategic partnership. The pact, signed in Kuala Lumpur by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and U.S. Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth, seeks to deepen military collaboration, promote interoperability, and enhance joint efforts toward maintaining a free, open, and rules-based Indo-Pacific region. Building upon previous foundational agreements, it reflects the growing maturity and mutual trust between the two democracies.
1. What is the purpose of the new India–US 10-year Defence Framework?
The new framework provides a strategic roadmap and unified policy direction for strengthening defence ties over the next decade. It aims to deepen cooperation in technology sharing, joint military exercises, logistics, intelligence exchange, and defence innovation, thereby enhancing operational synergy between the two nations.
2. Why is the agreement significant for the Indo-Pacific region?
Both countries see this pact as a cornerstone for ensuring a free, open, and rule-based Indo-Pacific, particularly amid China’s growing assertiveness. The agreement reinforces deterrence capabilities, promotes maritime security, and enhances coordination with like-minded partners under frameworks such as the Quad.
3. What previous defence agreements exist between India and the U.S.?
Over the past decade, India and the U.S. have signed several landmark pacts that laid the foundation for deeper defence cooperation:
- LEMOA (Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement) – 2016
- COMCASA (Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement) – 2018
- BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) – 2020
- SOSA and Liaison Officer Agreement – 2024
These agreements have enabled greater logistics access, secure communications, and geospatial data sharing between the two armed forces.
4. How does the new framework differ from the 2015 Defence Cooperation Framework?
While the 2015 agreement primarily established a foundation for cooperation, the 2025 framework seeks to consolidate and expand it. It introduces mechanisms for co-development, defence manufacturing, advanced training programs, and stronger military-to-military coordination, reflecting India’s evolving defence needs and U.S. strategic alignment.
5. What joint military exercises highlight India–U.S. defence cooperation?
The annual Yudh Abhyas exercise stands as a key symbol of bilateral defence cooperation. In September 2025, Indian and American troops conducted the drill at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, showcasing interoperability in high-altitude and cold-weather operations.
6. How are India and the U.S. addressing defence production and technology transfer?
Under the new framework, both nations are pursuing joint projects such as the manufacture of F-414 jet engines in India for the Tejas Mk2 fighter aircraft, and the acquisition of MQ-9B drones, MH-60R helicopters, and HALE UAVs. These initiatives support India’s Atmanirbhar Bharat (self-reliant India) vision and enhance domestic defence production capabilities.
7. What role does the agreement play amid current global tensions?
In a period of growing geopolitical competition and security challenges, the agreement strengthens strategic convergence between India and the U.S. It positions both nations as pivotal security partners in safeguarding regional stability and ensuring resilient supply chains in the Indo-Pacific.
8. What are the long-term implications of this agreement?
The framework is expected to institutionalise defence cooperation, streamline joint planning, and expand the scope of engagement across emerging domains such as cybersecurity, space, and artificial intelligence. By fostering collaboration between defence industries and armed forces, the pact will further cement India–U.S. relations as a defining partnership of the 21st century.
In summary, the 10-year Defence Framework Agreement elevates India–U.S. defence relations to new heights, aligning both nations in their shared commitment to peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
