The United States and India are continuing to strengthen their strategic partnership with a focus on defense cooperation. Recent discussions at the Pentagon between India's Ambassador to the US, Vinay Mohan Kwatra, and US Under Secretary of War for Policy, Elbridge Colby, signal a mutual interest in elevating this critical aspect of the bilateral relationship.

During the meeting, Kwatra and Colby engaged in a "productive conversation" to review the existing agenda of bilateral defense cooperation. Their discussion involved charting an "actionable path" for several initiatives currently in the pipeline between the two nations. Colby expressed his commitment to "continuing to elevate our critical defence cooperation with India". Kwatra also acknowledged and appreciated Colby’s "deep knowledge, perspective, and consistent support" for the strategic partnership between the two countries.

This meeting follows the completion of the 21st edition of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2025, a bilateral army-to-army exercise held in Alaska. The Indian Embassy in Washington has described these exercises as a "hallmark of the growing military-to-military interaction between India and the US," highlighting their alignment with the Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership.

The U.S. has recognized China as its primary "pacing challenge,". In light of this, collaborations with allies and partners like India have become increasingly important. Examples of this include the Quad partnership between Australia, India, Japan, and the United States. The U.S. is also working with the Indian government to enhance its indigenous defense industrial base through co-production and co-development opportunities in areas like jet fighter engines and armored vehicles.

India's approach to defense procurement is guided by national interest and market dynamics. India has been exploring options to bolster its defense capabilities, including the potential acquisition and domestic production of advanced missile systems.