Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister, India.
Rajnath Singh Calls US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth to Boost Indo-US Defence Cooperation: New Delhi – July 1, 2025 – India’s Defence Minister and US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth held a telephonic conversation today, July 1, 2025. The discussion covered various aspects of long-term cooperation in the defense sector, including training, military exchanges, and expanding industry collaboration. Both leaders agreed to continue building on their partnership across pillars such as interoperability, integration of defense industrial supply chains, logistics sharing, increased joint military exercises, and cooperation with other partners.
The Defence Minister acknowledged the support extended by the US to India regarding counter-terrorism efforts. He also recognized Secretary Hegseth’s leadership in advancing defense cooperation between the two nations. Hegseth extended an invitation to the Indian Defence Minister for an in-person meeting in the US to further develop the bilateral defense partnership.
In a social media post, India’s Defence Minister stated that the discussions reviewed ongoing and new initiatives aimed at deepening the India-US defense partnership and strengthening cooperation in capacity building. He indicated an interest in meeting the US Secretary of Defense soon.
This marks the third telephonic conversation between the two officials since January of this year, when Pete Hegseth was confirmed as US Secretary of Defense.
Key Defence Procurements by India from US Defence Contractors
India has engaged in significant defense procurements from US contractors over recent years, reflecting a growing strategic partnership. Notable acquisitions include C-17 Globemaster III transport aircraft from Boeing, P-8I Poseidon maritime surveillance aircraft also from Boeing, and Apache attack helicopters and Chinook heavy-lift helicopters from Boeing Defense and Space.
Additionally, India has procured M777 ultra-light howitzers from BAE Systems and has expressed interest in advanced fighter jets and unmanned aerial systems, indicating a continued trajectory of defense trade and collaboration between the two countries.
