India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth held high-level discussions in Cebu, Philippines, on October 28, 2026, to review progress under the 10-year India-US Defence Framework and identify new opportunities to expand bilateral military cooperation. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), bringing defence leaders together to discuss regional security and strategic priorities.
The discussions focused on strengthening military-to-military engagement, advancing defence technology cooperation, improving information sharing and expanding co-production opportunities. Both sides reviewed the progress achieved under the framework signed in October 2025, which provides a long-term roadmap for advancing the India-US Major Defence Partnership.
Defence industrial integration was another important area of discussion, with both countries exploring ways to strengthen defence supply chains and improve operational readiness. Greater collaboration in these areas could support closer coordination between the two armed forces while creating opportunities for industrial cooperation and technology development.
Regional security and counterterrorism also featured prominently in the talks. Rajnath Singh called for a firm international response against countries that support, train or finance terrorist organisations, emphasising the need for a zero-tolerance approach towards state-backed terrorism. Hegseth reaffirmed Washington’s support for India in its efforts to counter cross-border terrorism, according to the Indian Ministry of Defence.
The two leaders also exchanged views on the evolving security environment across the Indo-Pacific. Both countries reiterated the importance of maintaining a free, open and secure regional order, with maritime security cooperation and closer defence engagement remaining key elements of their strategic relationship.
Following the meeting, Singh described the discussions as productive and highlighted the importance of military technology, information sharing and co-production in strengthening bilateral ties. Hegseth also noted the first anniversary of the framework for the countries’ Major Defence Partnership and expressed interest in exploring additional avenues for cooperation.
The latest engagement reflects continued efforts by New Delhi and Washington to build on their established defence agreements and expand collaboration across operational, technological and industrial areas. As both countries navigate an increasingly complex regional security environment, progress under the 10-year framework is expected to remain an important measure of the direction of their defence partnership.