US, India Reaffirm Defence Commitment
New Delhi: India and the United States have further solidified their defense partnership at the 21st edition of the India-US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting, held in New Delhi from November 5-6, 2024.
The meeting, co-chaired by Lieutenant General JP Mathew, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Lieutenant General Joshua M Rudd, Deputy Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, focused on enhancing defense cooperation and fostering strategic and operational defense collaboration between the armed forces of both countries.
Key areas of discussion included capacity building, training exchanges, defense industrial cooperation, and joint exercises to bolster preparedness for conventional and hybrid threats.
“The Indo-US defense partnership is crucial for ensuring regional and global security, countering emerging threats, and building mutual capabilities,” said Lieutenant General Mathew.
The meeting builds on the growing commitment between India and the US to protect and advance a shared vision of a free, open, and rules-based global order.
“The US recognizes India as a critical strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region,” said Lieutenant General Rudd. “Our partnership is vital to addressing dynamic challenges and promoting peace and stability in the region.”
The India-US MCG meeting represents a significant milestone in the Indo-US defense partnership, demonstrating the two nations’ commitment to strengthening their strategic relationship through proactive engagement and enhanced interoperability.
India and the US have been rapidly expanding their military cooperation, with joint air and maritime exercises and collaboration on critical technologies.The US has recognized India as a Major Defense Partner, facilitating closer cooperation on defense technology and trade.
India has also strengthened defense ties with other key partners, including France, Germany, and Italy.
