A bipartisan delegation from the United States Congress has concluded a five-day visit to India, focusing on bolstering defence cooperation and advancing defence technology collaboration between the two nations. The delegation, which included key figures such as Chairman Michael Rogers and Ranking Member Adam Smith of the US House Armed Services Committee, met with senior Indian officials, including External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh.
The visit, which took place from January 24 to 28, underscored the sustained US engagement in deepening strategic coordination with India. The delegation also included Representative Jimmy Patronis and senior staff members of the US Armed Services Committee.
Central to the discussions were the expansion of defence cooperation, acceleration of defence technology collaboration, and identification of opportunities for co-development and co-production between the United States and India. These efforts aim to support shared security objectives and enhance regional stability.
Chairman Michael Rogers emphasised the significance of India as a Major Defence Partner for the United States. “Our discussions in New Delhi focused on strengthening defence cooperation and advancing defence technology collaboration that supports India’s defence modernisation and enhances regional stability,” Rogers stated.
Ranking Member Adam Smith echoed this sentiment, highlighting the importance of the US-India relationship. “Our ability to conduct the kind of candid dialogue we have carried out on this delegation is crucial to strengthening our defence cooperation and regional stability, providing both economic and national security benefits for all involved,” Smith said.
The delegation also engaged with Indian and American defence industry leaders, fostering dialogue and collaboration that could pave the way for future partnerships. US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor noted the practical outcomes of the visit, stating, “Chairman Rogers’ visit and meetings with Indian leaders and defence experts advanced practical cooperation on protecting Americans and Indians as well as people throughout the region. These discussions strengthened ongoing defence collaboration, supported India’s defence modernisation goals, and reinforced our shared commitment to stability in the Indo-Pacific.”
This visit comes at a critical time as both nations seek to enhance their defence capabilities and address evolving security challenges. The emphasis on co-development and co-production reflects a growing trend in global defence partnerships, where shared innovation and technological advancements are key to maintaining strategic advantages.
As the United States and India continue to strengthen their defence ties, the outcomes of this visit could set the stage for deeper collaboration in defence technology, joint military exercises, and strategic planning. The commitment to advancing defence cooperation not only benefits both nations but also contributes to broader regional stability and security.