How are India and the US Enhancing Defence Cooperation?
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Synopsis
In a significant meeting in New Delhi, General Upendra Dwivedi and US Secretary of the Army Daniel P Driscoll discussed strategies to strengthen defence cooperation and military engagement. This meeting underscores the evolving military ties between India and the US, reflecting their shared commitment to global peace and security.
Key Takeaways
- Strengthened bilateral defence cooperation
- Major Defence Partnership designation
- Focus on Indo-Pacific regional security
- Ongoing trade agreement negotiations
- Commitment to civil nuclear cooperation
New Delhi, Jan 25 (NationPress) Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi met with US Secretary of the Army, Daniel P Driscoll in New Delhi on Sunday to discuss ways to enhance defence collaboration and military-to-military engagement.
In a post shared on X, the Indian Army's Additional Directorate General of Public Information indicated, "Mr Daniel P Driscoll, US Secretary of the Army, met with General Upendra Dwivedi, COAS. The conversations concentrated on strengthening bilateral Defence Cooperation, intensifying military-to-military engagement, and solidifying both armies' commitment to global peace and security."
Earlier on Wednesday, US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor welcomed Driscoll upon his arrival in New Delhi.
"A warm welcome to my friend, US Secretary of the Army Dan Driscoll, to India," Gor posted on X.
On January 13, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio had a phone conversation with External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, covering critical areas of cooperation such as civil nuclear energy, trade discussions, and regional security in the Indo-Pacific.
“We discussed trade, critical minerals, nuclear collaboration, defence, and energy. We agreed to keep in touch on these and other matters,” EAM Jaishankar stated post-call.
During the conversation, Rubio congratulated India on passing the Sustainable Harnessing and Advancement of Nuclear Energy for Transforming India bill, a recent law that is part of India’s nuclear energy framework, as stated by Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott.
He mentioned that the United States aims to build on this legislation to fortify civil nuclear cooperation between the two nations.
“He expressed a desire to capitalize on this significant development to enhance US-India civil nuclear cooperation, expand opportunities for American businesses, advance shared energy security goals, and secure critical mineral supply chains,” Pigott elaborated.
The two diplomats engaged in discussions regarding ongoing bilateral trade agreement negotiations and their mutual interest in bolstering economic cooperation.
“They also exchanged views on regional developments, reaffirming the shared commitment of the United States and India to a free and open Indo-Pacific," Pigott added.
Defence collaboration between India and the US is founded on the New Framework for India-US Defence Cooperation, which was renewed for a decade in 2015.
In 2016, the defence relationship was recognized as a Major Defence Partnership (MDP). By 2018, India was classified under Tier-1 of the US Department of Commerce’s Strategic Trade Authorization license exception, according to a statement from the Indian Embassy in the US. Defence cooperation between India and the US encompasses a wide range of activities including regular institutionalized bilateral dialogues, joint military exercises, and defense procurements.
Point of View
One thing is clear: the defence cooperation between India and the United States is pivotal. This partnership not only strengthens bilateral ties but also plays a crucial role in maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific region. With both nations committed to shared goals of peace and security, the future looks promising for their collaborative efforts.
NationPress
25/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the main focus of the meeting between General Upendra Dwivedi and Daniel P Driscoll?
The primary focus was on enhancing defence cooperation and military-to-military engagement between India and the US.
Why is the India-US defence cooperation significant?
It reflects a shared commitment to global peace and security, essential for stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
What is the Major Defence Partnership (MDP)?
The MDP designation, established in 2016, signifies a robust defence relationship between India and the US.
How often do India and the US engage in military exercises?
India and the US engage in regular institutionalized bilateral dialogues and military exercises as part of their defence cooperation.
What future plans were discussed regarding civil nuclear cooperation?
Plans to build on recent legislation to strengthen civil nuclear cooperation and enhance opportunities for American companies were discussed.
