U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth praised India’s growing military capabilities and defense modernization efforts during remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, while also urging regional partners to remain vigilant about China’s expanding influence in the Indo-Pacific.
“In South Asia, India is a critical anchor to hold the line,” Hegseth said while delivering his remarks at International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS). “A powerful India acting in its own self-interest advances our shared goal of maintaining a balance of power across the region.”
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Speaking at Asia’s premier security forum, Hegseth described India as a major strategic partner and highlighted its investments in defense technology, military readiness and indigenous weapons production. He said India’s growing capabilities contribute to regional stability amid increasing geopolitical competition.
“We have also committed to pursuing co-production with India to advance capabilities like Javelin anti-tank guided munitions,” Hegseth said and confirmed U.S.-India deepening ties on the defense industrial end.
The comments came as the United States continued to strengthen security partnerships across the Indo-Pacific region amid concerns about China’s military expansion and assertive actions in contested waters. Hegseth warned that Beijing’s growing military capabilities and regional ambitions posed challenges to stability and freedom of navigation. He called on allies and partners to deepen cooperation, enhance deterrence and strengthen collective security arrangements.
India has significantly expanded its defense modernization programs recently, investing in advanced fighter aircraft, naval platforms, missile systems and domestic manufacturing initiatives under its push for greater self-reliance in defense production. The remarks underscore Washington’s increasing emphasis on India as a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific. Defense cooperation between the two countries has expanded through joint military exercises, technology-sharing agreements and broader security collaboration.
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Indian officials have consistently maintained that New Delhi pursues an independent foreign policy while strengthening partnerships with multiple countries to safeguard national interests and regional security.
The Shangri-La Dialogue brought together defense ministers, military leaders and policymakers from across the world to discuss security challenges ranging from regional conflicts to emerging military technologies.
Hegseth’s remarks reflected growing U.S. support for India’s defense trajectory as both nations continue expanding cooperation amid shifting geopolitical dynamics in Asia.