India, US Defence Chiefs to Meet in Malaysia
India’s Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will meet his American counterpart Pete Hegseth in Kuala Lumpur on Friday, during the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting. The meeting is aimed at easing recent strain in bilateral ties and is the first such face-to-face discussion between the two leaders.
Agenda Focus
According to officials, the discussions will cover India’s proposed purchase of six Boeing P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft and the establishing of a refreshed India-US defence cooperation framework. The meeting also opens the possibility of a follow-up bilateral visit by either minister.
Strategic Context
The meeting comes at a key moment as the U.S. has imposed steep tariffs on Indian imports and India is re-evaluating its defence procurement strategy. Both sides are looking to reinforce their defence partnership amid broader regional security concerns. The Malaysian meeting provides a convenient platform under the regional framework.
