Pete Hegseth Calls India a ‘Critical Anchor’ in Indo-Pacific, Highlights Expanding Defence Partnership

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth praised India’s military modernization efforts and expanding defence-industrial capabilities. He said a strong and self-reliant India contributes significantly to maintaining a balanced security environment across the region.

India Playing Key Role in Regional Security

Highlighting India’s strategic importance, Hegseth said the country is increasingly contributing to regional stability, particularly in the Indian Ocean.

According to him, India’s defence modernization programme supports broader efforts to maintain a balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. He noted that a powerful India acting in its national interest aligns with shared regional security objectives.

Hegseth described India as an essential partner in addressing emerging security challenges while helping ensure stability in one of the world’s most strategically important regions.

Praise for India’s Defence Manufacturing Growth

The US official also praised India’s growing defence manufacturing and logistics infrastructure.

He said India is developing the industrial capacity needed to support advanced military operations, including maintenance and repair capabilities for defence platforms. Hegseth suggested that India’s expanding capabilities could potentially support US Navy vessels operating in the region in the future.

His remarks reflect the increasing focus on defence-industrial cooperation between the two countries.

Focus on Joint Defence Production

Hegseth highlighted ongoing discussions on joint defence production initiatives between India and the United States.

He specifically referred to cooperation in advanced military technologies, including efforts related to Javelin anti-tank guided munitions. According to him, such initiatives are aimed at improving the operational readiness and capabilities of both nations.

The growing emphasis on co-production and technology collaboration has become an important pillar of the broader India-US strategic partnership.

Concerns Over Regional Security Environment

During his address, Hegseth also spoke about the evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific region.

He expressed concerns about China’s expanding military capabilities and increasing activities across the region. He said maintaining a balanced regional order remains important for ensuring long-term peace, security, and economic stability.

According to Hegseth, no single nation should be able to dominate regional security arrangements or influence the prosperity of other countries through military superiority.

US Defence Investment and Partner Expectations

The US Secretary outlined plans for significant investments in America’s defence sector, including expanding military manufacturing capacity and modernizing defence infrastructure.

He also encouraged US allies and partners to strengthen their own defence commitments and invest more in national security capabilities.

Hegseth said countries that actively contribute to regional security and demonstrate long-term commitment to defence cooperation are likely to benefit from deeper strategic partnerships with Washington.

India-US Defence Ties Continue to Grow

India and the United States have steadily expanded defence cooperation over the past several years through joint military exercises, technology partnerships, logistics agreements, and defence procurement initiatives.

Hegseth’s remarks underscore Washington’s view of India as an increasingly important strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region.

As geopolitical challenges continue to evolve, defence cooperation between New Delhi and Washington is expected to remain a key component of their broader strategic relationship.