India and US Reaffirm Defence Cooperation and Joint Resolve Against Terrorism at ADMM-Plus
By Suman Munshi | IBG NEWS
CEBU, Philippines, October 28, 2026: India and the United States have reiterated their commitment to strengthening bilateral defence cooperation, combating terrorism and promoting security across the Indo-Pacific during a high-level meeting between Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth.
The two leaders met on October 28 on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, Philippines. Their discussions focused on the progress of the India-US Major Defence Partnership and opportunities to expand cooperation in military preparedness, advanced technology and defence manufacturing.
Ten-Year Defence Framework Under Review
During the meeting, the ministers reviewed progress under the 10-year India-US Defence Framework and discussed ways to strengthen the strategic relationship.
Key areas of discussion included improving operational readiness, expanding technology sharing, increasing military-to-military exchanges and strengthening defence industrial integration. Both sides also explored opportunities to enhance maritime security cooperation and develop more resilient defence supply chains.
The discussions reflected the shared objective of translating the longstanding defence partnership into greater operational cooperation and closer coordination between the armed forces of both countries.
India and US Reaffirm Joint Stand Against Terrorism
Counterterrorism featured prominently in the talks, with both countries underlining the need for coordinated international action against terrorist organisations.
Rajnath Singh called for a firm, zero-tolerance approach towards countries that support, train or finance terrorist groups. He stressed the importance of holding such entities accountable to address the continuing threat posed by terrorism.
Pete Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s support for New Delhi in its efforts to counter cross-border terrorism. Singh expressed appreciation for the United States’ continued backing in India’s counterterrorism efforts.
Focus on Indo-Pacific Security
The meeting also highlighted the importance of closer defence coordination in maintaining stability across the Indo-Pacific region.
Following the discussions, Rajnath Singh described the India-US partnership as a cornerstone of efforts to maintain a free, open and secure Indo-Pacific in a post on X.
Both sides reiterated their intention to deepen strategic cooperation, strengthen defence-industrial links and expand practical collaboration between their militaries.
Strengthening a Strategic Partnership
The talks in Cebu represent another step in the continuing effort by India and the United States to broaden their defence relationship. With cooperation spanning military engagement, technology, maritime security and industrial development, both countries are seeking to enhance their ability to respond to evolving regional and global security challenges.
Their renewed emphasis on counterterrorism and Indo-Pacific stability further underscores the strategic importance of the bilateral relationship.
Source: Press Information Bureau (PIB), Government of India, Ministry of Defence.
IBG NEWS Editorial Note: This report has been independently rewritten from the supplied PIB release. The underlying claims and meeting details are attributed to the official source.
