India–US hold 2+2 Intersessional Dialogue: New 10-year Defence Framework, trade, energy, and Indo-Pacific ties discussed

From the US side, Bethany P Morrison, Senior Bureau Official for South and Central Asian Affairs, and Jedidiah P Royal, Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Indo-Pacific Security Affairs, led the discussions.

The meeting marked the first official-level dialogue since the August 6 announcement by US President Donald Trump’s administration that imposed 50% tariffs on Indian goods

What were the focus areas of the dialogue?

According to the official statement by the India government, the India-US talks covered a broad spectrum, including trade and investment, energy security with emphasis on civil-nuclear cooperation, critical minerals exploration, and joint efforts in counternarcotics and counterterrorism. Both sides stressed the need to strengthen economic resilience and regional security in parallel.

What does the new defence framework entail?

A central outcome was the decision to advance negotiations on a new ten-year Framework for the India–US Major Defense Partnership, the official statement read. 

This agreement is expected to boost collaboration in defence industrial production, science and technology, operational coordination, and intelligence-sharing.

 The dialogue also built on initiatives under the India–US COMPACT (Catalysing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology), which is designed to modernise and deepen bilateral security ties.

A report by India Today stated that India and the United States are on the verge of finalising a significant defence deal, with an agreement worth over USD 1 billion to purchase 113 engines for 97 LCA Mark 1A Tejas fighter jets. This new order would be in addition to the 99 GE-404 engines already contracted for the initial 83 Mark 1A jets.

Mint could not independently verify this information. 

How significant is the Indo-Pacific in this dialogue?

According to the official press release by the India goverment, both nations reaffirmed their shared commitment to a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific, highlighting the role of the Quad grouping in promoting peace, stability, and economic growth. The discussion reflected converging strategic interests aimed at countering evolving regional challenges.

What comes next for the India–US partnership?

The meeting concluded with both sides expressing satisfaction over progress so far and a strong desire to further widen cooperation. The dialogue underscored the importance of enhancing the breadth and depth of the bilateral relationship, ensuring that it benefits not just both nations but also contributes to a more stable and prosperous global order.