Rajnath Singh and Lloyd Austin Discuss Strengthening India-US Defence Ties at ADMM-Plus

Vientiane, Lao PDR: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh met with US Secretary of Defense, Lloyd J. Austin, on the sidelines of the 11th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Vientiane on November 21, 2024. The two leaders lauded the impressive progress made in the India-US defence relationship, which has seen significant advancements in operational coordination, information-sharing, and industrial collaboration.

Both sides highlighted the milestones achieved under the US-India Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, particularly in co-production arrangements for advanced technologies such as jet engines, munitions, and ground mobility systems. These initiatives, they noted, have reinforced the strategic defence partnership between the two nations.

Recalling his recent visit to the US in August 2024, Rajnath Singh reflected on the fruitful discussions that led to the signing of two critical documents—the Security of Supplies Agreement (SOSA) and a Memorandum of Agreement on the deployment of Liaison Officers. Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the progress made in deepening military cooperation and interoperability, which is pivotal for ensuring a free and open Indo-Pacific.

The conversation also touched upon the successful QUAD Summit held on September 21, 2024, which was attended by Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Rajnath Singh emphasized the importance of continuing the momentum generated by the Summit, particularly with regard to the new regional Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI), the first-ever Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission, and the launch of the Quad Indo-Pacific Logistics Network pilot project. These initiatives aim to enhance the region’s response to natural disasters, improving the speed and efficiency of civilian aid efforts across the Indo-Pacific.

Both sides expressed support for the growing collaboration in defence innovation, facilitated by the India-US Defence Acceleration Ecosystem. This partnership involves governments, businesses, and academic institutions working together to tackle joint challenges. They agreed to expand opportunities for joint funding, challenges, and increased visibility to foster continued growth in defence innovation.

Rajnath Singh thanked Secretary Austin for his exemplary contributions in strengthening the India-US defence partnership, recognizing his role in enhancing strategic cooperation between the two nations. In a post shared on X, he called Austin a “great friend to India,” expressing his gratitude for his efforts and wishing him the best in his future endeavours.