US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has hailed India's growing military capabilities, calling the country a critical anchor in South Asia and a key pillar of the Indo-Pacific security architecture. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30, 2026, Hegseth highlighted India's military modernisation, defence-industrial expansion and growing strategic importance.
India's Strategic Role
Hegseth emphasised that India is a powerful nation that is actively modernising its military. He noted that New Delhi's rise is not only beneficial for regional stability but also essential for maintaining a balance of power across the Indo-Pacific region. The US Defence Secretary underscored India's role as a critical anchor in South Asia, contributing to the overall security framework.
Defence Cooperation Expansion
Hegseth also pointed to expanding India-US defence cooperation, including co-production initiatives and joint capability development. These collaborative efforts are designed to enhance interoperability and strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations. The US official stressed the need to continue building on this momentum to address shared security challenges.
India's defence-industrial expansion was another key topic. Hegseth acknowledged the country's progress in developing indigenous defence capabilities, which aligns with the US goal of supporting reliable partners in the region. The joint initiatives are expected to cover areas such as technology transfer, research and development, and manufacturing.
The Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia's premier security summit, provided a platform for Hegseth to reaffirm the US commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific. He reiterated that India is a vital partner in achieving this vision, given its strategic location and growing military prowess.
In conclusion, Hegseth's remarks signal strong US support for India's military modernisation and strategic rise, reinforcing the deepening defence ties between the two democracies. This partnership is seen as crucial for countering regional threats and promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific.
