'Very Happy', Philippines Hails India-Made BrahMos As ‘Unmatched’, Signals Scope For Deeper Defence Partnerships

The Philippines has expressed strong satisfaction with its acquisition of India’s BrahMos supersonic cruise missile system, with Philippine Ambassador to India Josel F. Ignacio describing Manila as “very, very happy”, delighted and proud to have become the first overseas customer for the advanced missile technology.

Speaking in New Delhi, Ignacio said the purchase represents a major milestone in the growing defence relationship between the two countries and has reinforced India’s standing as a credible source of advanced defence technology for the Philippines.

According to the Ambassador, the BrahMos acquisition has significantly strengthened Manila’s deterrence capabilities while creating opportunities for future high-technology defence procurement from India. He described the missile system as one of the Philippines’ most important defence purchases and said the country regards the technology as both advanced and highly effective.

“The Philippines, you know, is very, very happy and delighted and proud to have been the first country of export for India for the BrahMos technology,” Ignacio said.

While praising the system’s capabilities, he stressed that the Philippines remains committed to peace and views the missile primarily as a deterrent rather than a weapon intended for combat use.

“Of course, no one wants to see it put to use; you know, we are a peace-loving country after all. So, all of this is about deterrence, but credible deterrence,” he said.

Ignacio noted that the BrahMos program has elevated India into a select group of nations considered reliable suppliers of sophisticated defence technologies. He said the development is likely to encourage the Philippine military and defence establishment to explore additional procurement opportunities from India in the coming years.

“What it shows also is that for the Philippines, India has risen to join the ranks of countries that are credible sources of defence technology for us, and I'm sure that our defence ministry and our military will increasingly look to India for other possible procurement and purchases,” he said.

On the prospect of further BrahMos orders, the Ambassador said any decision would ultimately rest with the Philippine military and defence authorities. However, he made clear that Manila remains highly impressed by the system’s performance and technological sophistication.

“I feel that the kind of technology and defence deterrence that BrahMos accords us right now is unmatched. The technology as a supersonic cruise missile has yet to be matched. And so there remains an opportunity,” he said.

The Ambassador added that the Philippines has already sourced a range of defence equipment from India, including helmets, protective vests and military trucks, under existing defence cooperation arrangements. He argued that the BrahMos deal has effectively opened the door for the acquisition of more advanced technologies from Indian industry.

“What BrahMos does is that it opens the doors to purchases of more high-technology items,” Ignacio said.

The BrahMos partnership has become one of the most significant symbols of India’s expanding defence export ambitions. The original agreement, signed in 2022 and valued at approximately US$375 million, marked the first international export order for the missile system. Deliveries, operator training and deployment support have since deepened defence cooperation between New Delhi and Manila while strengthening maritime security collaboration across the Indo-Pacific.

Developed jointly by India and Russia, BrahMos is regarded as one of the world’s fastest operational supersonic cruise missiles. The system’s speed, precision and coastal defence capabilities have made it a central element of the Philippines’ military modernisation program and broader deterrence posture.

Ignacio’s remarks came during the 2026 Indo-Pacific Regional Dialogue in New Delhi, a three-day forum themed around science, technology and academic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific. The event is focused on strengthening the foundations of maritime security and strategic collaboration across the region.

Concluding his remarks, the Ambassador indicated that the BrahMos purchase is unlikely to be the final chapter in bilateral defence cooperation, signalling that India is now firmly on the Philippines’ radar for future high-technology defence requirements.

“Now India is on the horizon, on our eyesight when it comes to these kinds of procurement. So BrahMos will not be the end of it.”

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Quad Partners Reaffirm Commitment To A Secure And Prosperous Indo-Pacific, Says Australian Envoy

Australia's High Commissioner to India, Philip Green, has reiterated the importance of the Quad, describing it as a platform focused on practical cooperation to promote a stronger, more prosperous and more secure Indo-Pacific.

In a post on X, Green stated that the Quad is centred on addressing the economic opportunities and challenges facing the region. He emphasised that Australia, India, Japan and the United States continue to work closely together on issues that matter most to the Indo-Pacific.

"The Quad is about practical cooperation for a stronger, more prosperous & secure #IndoPacific. Australia, India, Japan & the United States continue to work together on the economic opportunities & challenges that matter to our region," Green wrote.

The Quad, formally known as the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, brings together Australia, India, Japan and the United States through regular consultations and cooperation. The grouping has increasingly focused on regional stability, economic resilience, maritime security, emerging technologies, infrastructure development and supply chain security across the Indo-Pacific.

Green also shared the Quad Foreign Ministers' Joint Statement issued following a meeting of the four countries' foreign ministers in Atlanta, Georgia, on 31 October 2026.

The ministers reviewed progress on ongoing Quad initiatives and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific. Their discussions reflected the grouping's growing emphasis on both security and economic issues that affect regional prosperity and stability.

According to the joint statement, the ministers highlighted the importance of economic security in safeguarding global stability and prosperity. They reaffirmed their commitment to building reliable and open global supply chains, supported by trusted and resilient infrastructure.

The ministers also voiced serious concerns about economic coercion, arbitrary export restrictions and non-market policies and practices that create overcapacity and disrupt global supply chains in critical industries.

Recognising the strategic importance of major maritime routes, they stressed the need to preserve navigational rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, in accordance with international law as reflected in UNCLOS. They underscored the importance of uninterrupted commerce, energy security and the safe passage of vessels and maritime crews.

The joint statement further highlighted the significance of Super Intelligence (SI) and initiatives such as Pax Silica for future economic growth. The ministers expressed their intention to provide more than $85 million in technical and financial assistance to expand access to trusted SI technologies throughout the Indo-Pacific, including through the Quad SI Accelerator.

The four nations also expressed deep concern over the rapid growth of online fraud and cyber scams. They condemned criminal networks involved in scam operations, human trafficking and large-scale financial fraud, noting that such activities deprive citizens of tens of billions of dollars each year. The Quad members pledged to work together to dismantle these networks and hold those responsible accountable.

In addition, the ministers expressed condolences to those affected by the devastating flash floods of 26 August 2026 and reaffirmed their commitment to supporting partners during times of crisis. They acknowledged India's leading role as the first responder in Nepal's rescue efforts and recognised the substantial assistance provided by all Quad members.

Separately, India's External Affairs Minister, S. Jaishankar, underscored the Quad's continued focus on maintaining stability, strengthening prosperity and preserving freedom of choice across the Indo-Pacific.

Following the foreign ministers' meeting in Atlanta, Jaishankar highlighted resilient supply chains, action against non-market practices and the promotion of strategic autonomy as central priorities for the grouping. He also advocated a modern and practical approach to advancing the Quad's agenda.

“Maintaining stability, driving prosperity and ensuring freedom of choice as our continuing commitments in the Indo-Pacific,” Jaishankar said, summarising the shared objectives of the four nations.

The latest discussions underline the Quad's evolution from a primarily strategic dialogue into a broader framework addressing economic resilience, critical technologies, infrastructure, maritime security and transnational challenges. While remaining committed to a free and open Indo-Pacific, the four countries continue to deepen cooperation on practical initiatives designed to enhance regional security and long-term prosperity.

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Ajit Doval Arrives In Hanoi To Review Enhanced India-Vietnam Strategic Partnership

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval arrived in Hanoi on Sunday for an official visit to Vietnam, where he is scheduled to engage with the Vietnamese leadership as part of efforts to advance the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership between the two countries.

The Indian Embassy in Vietnam confirmed Doval’s arrival and stated that his discussions would be held in line with the upgraded bilateral framework that now guides relations between New Delhi and Hanoi.

In a message shared on X, the embassy stated: “Welcome to Vietnam! National Security Adviser (NSA) of India Shri Ajit Doval, KC, landed in Hanoi on an official visit. NSA, during the visit, will interact with the Vietnamese leadership in line with the Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.”

The visit comes months after India and Vietnam agreed to elevate their relationship to an Enhanced Comprehensive Strategic Partnership during Vietnamese President To Lam’s visit to India in May 2026, marking a significant step in the strengthening of bilateral ties.

During that visit, Doval called on President To Lam, with both sides discussing measures to deepen the multifaceted comprehensive strategic partnership and expand cooperation across a wide range of sectors.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President To Lam also held extensive discussions during the Vietnamese leader’s India visit, reviewing bilateral relations and exchanging views on key regional and global developments. Both leaders emphasised that stronger India-Vietnam ties would deliver tangible benefits to their citizens while supporting India’s Viksit Bharat 2047 vision and Vietnam’s Vision 2045 development goals.

The two nations also welcomed the effective implementation of the Joint Vision Statement on India-Vietnam Defence Partnership towards 2030, which continues to serve as a roadmap for expanding defence cooperation.

Building on this foundation, both sides agreed to intensify engagement in traditional and emerging areas of defence collaboration. These include defence policy dialogue, joint military exercises, staff talks, joint research, co-production of advanced defence technologies, increased naval and air force exchanges, peacekeeping cooperation, information sharing, hydrography, defence exhibitions, capacity building and defence industrial partnerships.

The discussions also underscored the importance of maritime security and safety, along with enhanced cooperation in search-and-rescue operations, reflecting the growing strategic convergence between India and Vietnam in the Indo-Pacific region.

Doval’s current visit is expected to provide further momentum to the rapidly expanding relationship, particularly in strategic, security and defence domains, as both countries continue to strengthen cooperation amid evolving regional and global challenges.

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Marco Rubio Says Quad Is Not An Anti-China Coalition As Group Expands Indo-Pacific Cooperation

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio has stressed that the Quad should not be viewed as an alliance directed against China or any other nation, arguing instead that the grouping is focused on addressing specific activities and behaviours that concern its members.

Speaking after a meeting of Quad foreign ministers in Atlanta, Rubio said, “The Quad is not anti-anybody. It’s not a format that exists to be against any country.”

He added that while the concerns raised by the four nations are often linked to the actions of a particular country, the grouping’s purpose is not to target any state. “To the extent we express concern about things in the Quad, it’s concern about behaviours. It’s concern about activities.”

“Now, those activities or behaviours are coming repeatedly from one country. That’s going to be obvious to everybody. But it is not an anti-China or anti-anybody coalition. The Quad is a cooperative agreement between four countries that share a common interest and common opposition to behaviours, and that’s what we’ll continue to point to.”

Although Rubio did not identify the country in question, his remarks came amid growing concerns among Quad members over economic coercion, critical mineral supply chains and maritime security challenges across the Indo-Pacific.

The foreign ministers of the United States, India, Japan and Australia met on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting in Atlanta, where they reviewed progress on a broad range of Quad initiatives. The gathering marked the third Quad foreign ministers’ meeting of the year, following earlier meetings in New Delhi and Manila.

Rubio said a Quad leaders’ summit is expected to take place in Manila in November and indicated that an official announcement would be made shortly. The summit is expected to be held on the margins of major ASEAN-related meetings in the Philippines.

The ministers reaffirmed their commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific and highlighted the importance of economic security, resilient supply chains and trusted infrastructure for maintaining regional stability and prosperity.

In a strongly worded joint statement, the four countries expressed “grave concerns” about economic coercion, including arbitrary export restrictions and non-market practices that create industrial overcapacity and disrupt critical global supply chains.

While no country was named, the language reflected concerns increasingly voiced by Quad members regarding restrictions on critical mineral exports and broader supply-chain vulnerabilities.

The ministers pledged more than $85 million in technical and financial assistance to expand access to trusted artificial intelligence technologies across the Indo-Pacific. The funding will support initiatives including a Quad AI Accelerator aimed at widening regional access to advanced and secure AI capabilities.

They also launched a new effort to identify vulnerabilities and bottlenecks across semiconductor and AI hardware supply chains, reflecting growing concerns over the concentration of critical technology production and processing capacity.

Maritime security remained a key focus. The Quad members underlined the importance of preserving navigation rights and freedoms in the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, describing uninterrupted commercial shipping and energy flows as essential to global economic stability.

The ministers criticised the imposition of shipping tolls and reiterated that navigation rights must be protected under international law, including the principles reflected in the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Another major priority was tackling transnational cyber-enabled crime. The four countries warned that online scam networks are costing their economies tens of billions of dollars annually. They condemned criminal organisations involved in fraud operations, human trafficking and forced cyber scams, pledging to dismantle those networks and hold their leaders accountable.

On critical minerals, the United States committed $10 million to support facilities in India and ASEAN countries that recover and process valuable minerals from electronic waste and industrial scrap. The initiative forms part of the Quad Critical Minerals Framework announced earlier this year and is intended to strengthen diversified and resilient supply chains.

The ministers also announced the launch of the first Quad Business Leaders’ Forum, designed to deepen commercial ties and encourage private-sector collaboration across strategic industries. Export credit agencies from the four nations are scheduled to meet in Tokyo on November 18 to explore further cooperation.

Infrastructure development featured prominently in the discussions. Quad members confirmed work with Fiji to modernise port facilities in Suva, Lautoka and Rokobili, while noting that more than 2,000 infrastructure fellowships have already been awarded across the Indo-Pacific region.

In the maritime domain, the second Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer mission took place between September 25 and October 7, sailing from Chennai to Perth aboard an Indian Coast Guard vessel with personnel from all four Quad countries participating.

The ministers also confirmed plans for the first Quad maritime surveillance exercise during Sea Dragon 2027, signalling deeper operational cooperation in maritime awareness and regional security.

Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief were also discussed. The four nations expressed condolences for the victims of the devastating flash floods of August 26 and acknowledged India’s role as a first responder during rescue operations in Nepal. Australia, Japan and the United States will send observers to India’s disaster-relief exercise scheduled for November.

The meeting concluded with ministers looking ahead to the next Quad Leaders’ Summit and the next foreign ministers’ meeting, underscoring the grouping’s increasingly active role in supply-chain resilience, technology cooperation, critical minerals security, maritime stability and regional development across the Indo-Pacific.

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EAM Jaishankar And Lavrov Discuss Ukraine Conflict, Gulf Tensions And Global Challenges At G20 Meeting In Atlanta

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar held talks with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Atlanta on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, with discussions centring on the Ukraine conflict, the situation in the Gulf and a range of multilateral issues.

Confirming the meeting on social media, Jaishankar wrote: “Discussed the Ukraine conflict, Gulf situation and multilateral issues with FM Sergey Lavrov of Russia.”

The bilateral engagement came at a time when the Russia-Ukraine war continues to shape global diplomatic debates, while rising tensions across West Asia have increased concerns regarding energy security, maritime trade routes and broader regional stability.

The two ministers exchanged views on developments in Ukraine and the Gulf, while also reviewing wider international issues confronting the global community. India’s engagement with Russia has continued despite persistent disagreements between Moscow and several Western capitals over the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

New Delhi has maintained that dialogue and diplomacy remain the most effective path towards resolving international disputes. Reflecting that position during the G20 deliberations, Jaishankar stressed the need for diplomatic engagement over military approaches, arguing that military solutions alone cannot address increasingly complex global challenges.

The meeting took place amid visible divisions within the G20 over the Ukraine war and other pressing international security issues.

The two-day gathering in Atlanta was hosted by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and focused heavily on energy security, supply chain resilience, freedom of navigation, food security and major geopolitical crises affecting the global economy.

Russia’s participation at the meeting triggered disagreements among some delegations. Several European representatives reportedly objected to appearing alongside Lavrov in the traditional group photograph, leading organisers to cancel the planned photo session.

The gathering ultimately concluded without a joint communique after member states were unable to reach consensus on several contentious issues. Instead, the United States opted to issue a chairman’s statement outlining the substance of the discussions.

Alongside the Ukraine conflict and developments in West Asia, ministers also examined challenges relating to energy flows, global supply chains, food security and the security of critical maritime corridors such as the Strait of Hormuz and the Red Sea, both of which remain vital to international commerce and global energy markets.

During his visit to Atlanta, Jaishankar also participated in a Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting alongside counterparts from the United States, Japan and Australia. The four nations agreed to deepen cooperation in artificial intelligence, critical minerals infrastructure and maritime security across the Indo-Pacific.

The Quad partners announced the creation of the first-ever Quad Business Leaders’ Forum, aimed at strengthening collaboration between governments and industry while accelerating investment and innovation across the region.

The grouping also unveiled plans to provide more than $85 million in technical and financial assistance to expand access to trusted artificial intelligence technologies across the Indo-Pacific.

In another significant announcement, the Quad members revealed plans for the first Sea Dragon 2027 maritime surveillance collaboration initiative, underscoring their growing focus on maritime domain awareness, regional security and the protection of key sea lanes.

The Atlanta meetings highlighted India’s continued diplomatic outreach across competing geopolitical camps, while reinforcing its longstanding position that dialogue, cooperation and multilateral engagement remain essential for managing global conflicts and safeguarding international stability.

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Quad Launches $85 Million Trusted AI Push As US Commits $10 Million For Critical Minerals Recycling

The Quad grouping of India, the United States, Japan and Australia has unveiled a major new initiative aimed at expanding access to trusted artificial intelligence technologies across the Indo-Pacific, alongside fresh American support for critical minerals recycling projects in India and Southeast Asia.

The announcements were made following a meeting of the four nations' foreign ministers on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers' Summit in Atlanta, Georgia.

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong participated in the discussions, which focused on economic security, advanced technologies, resilient supply chains and regional cooperation.

In a joint statement issued after the meeting, the Quad partners said they intend to provide more than $85 million in technical and financial assistance to improve access to trusted artificial intelligence capabilities across the Indo-Pacific.

The funding is expected to be channelled through initiatives including the Quad AI Accelerator, which is designed to support innovation, capability-building and broader adoption of trusted AI technologies across the region.

Highlighting the growing strategic importance of emerging technologies, the ministers also underscored the role of the Pax Silica initiative in supporting future economic growth, strengthening technology ecosystems and deepening cooperation among regional partners.

“The Quad ministers highlighted the importance of artificial intelligence and initiatives like Pax Silica to the future of economic growth and expressed their intent to provide over USD 85 million of technical and financial assistance to support access to trusted AI across the Indo-Pacific, including through the Quad AI Accelerator.”

Alongside the AI package, the United States committed a separate $10 million towards critical minerals recycling initiatives in India and ASEAN member states. The move is intended to strengthen resilient supply chains and improve access to strategically important minerals that are essential for advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies, semiconductors, electronics and other high-technology sectors.

The commitment builds on the Quad's broader efforts to diversify and secure critical mineral supply chains, an area that has become increasingly important amid growing global competition for key industrial resources.

The ministers also announced the creation of the first Quad Business Leaders' Forum, a new platform intended to bring together governments and private-sector stakeholders to encourage investment, commercial partnerships and collaboration across strategic industries.

To further advance economic cooperation, the Quad's export credit agencies are scheduled to meet in Tokyo on November 18 to explore practical avenues for collaboration and identify opportunities to support regional development and investment initiatives.

The Atlanta gathering marked the third Quad foreign ministers' meeting of 2026, following earlier engagements in New Delhi in May and Manila in July. The steady pace of consultations reflects the group's expanding agenda covering economic security, critical technologies, maritime cooperation and supply-chain resilience.

In addition to technology and economic matters, the ministers discussed strengthening maritime defence cooperation, protecting rare-earth and critical mineral supply networks, and accelerating collaboration in advanced technology sectors.

“As our nations continue building reliable and open supply chains, supporting next-generation technologies, increasing maritime cooperation and securing critical minerals, the United States, Australia, India and Japan are delivering results for our people and the nations in the region,” Rubio said.

Preparations are now underway for the next Quad Leaders' Summit, which is expected to be hosted by US President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the ASEAN-East Asia Summits in mid-November. 

Officials believe the summit could provide fresh momentum to the Quad's economic, technological and strategic initiatives across the Indo-Pacific, particularly in areas such as trusted AI, semiconductor supply chains, critical minerals and emerging technologies.

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Quad Nations Deepen Maritime Security, Critical Minerals And Cyber Crime Cooperation In Indo-Pacific

The Quad countries, comprising India, the United States, Japan and Australia, have unveiled a series of new initiatives aimed at strengthening maritime security, improving supply chain resilience, combating transnational cyber crime and enhancing cooperation on critical minerals across the Indo-Pacific.

The announcements followed talks in Atlanta between External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi and Australian Foreign Minister Penny Wong on the sidelines of the G20 Foreign Ministers’ Meeting.

A key outcome was the decision to expand maritime cooperation after representatives from all four nations completed the second Quad-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission. Conducted from 25 September to 7 October, the mission saw personnel from the Quad countries sail aboard an Indian Coast Guard offshore patrol vessel from Chennai to Perth.

The four nations described the deployment as an important milestone in advancing operational coordination and cooperation against unlawful maritime activities across the Indo-Pacific.

Building on this momentum, the Quad confirmed that the first exercise under the Indo-Pacific Maritime Surveillance Collaboration initiative will take place during Sea Dragon 2027. The initiative is designed to improve maritime domain awareness through enhanced information-sharing, surveillance coordination and monitoring of activities at sea.

The ministers also announced the launch of the first Quad Maritime Domain Awareness Track 1.5 Symposium in early 2027 under the Maritime Initiative for Training in the Indo-Pacific (MAITRI). The forum will bring together regional partners to exchange views on maritime monitoring techniques, emerging technologies and mechanisms for sharing information.

The growing emphasis on maritime security reflects increasing concern among Quad members over the safety of critical sea lanes that carry a large proportion of global trade and energy supplies.

In their joint statement, the ministers underscored the importance of preserving navigational rights and freedoms in strategic waterways such as the Strait of Hormuz, the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. They called for uninterrupted transit and safe passage for vessels and maritime crews without tolls, in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

Disaster response cooperation also featured prominently in the discussions.

Australia, Japan and the United States will send observers to India’s annual humanitarian assistance and disaster relief exercise scheduled for November. The partners additionally highlighted progress made during a September tabletop exercise hosted by Japan’s Ministry of Defence, where work continued on standard operating procedures for the Indo-Pacific Logistics Network.

Further efforts to improve coordination in disaster relief logistics are expected to continue during the next Rim of the Pacific exercise, reinforcing the Quad’s objective of enhancing regional preparedness and response capabilities.

The ministers also expressed growing concern over the rise of online fraud and cyber scam operations, describing them as threats to both national and international security.

They condemned criminal organisations involved in human trafficking and the coercion of victims into conducting fraudulent online activities. According to the joint statement, these networks siphon tens of billions of dollars annually from citizens across the four Quad countries.

“The Quad countries committed to dismantling these operations and holding transnational criminal groups and their leaders accountable,” the statement said.

While no specific enforcement roadmap or implementation timetable was announced, the commitment marks a renewed effort by the grouping to tackle transnational organised crime operating across borders.

On economic security, the four partners advanced cooperation under the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative Framework unveiled earlier this year.

The United States announced a commitment of $10 million to support infrastructure and facilities in India and ASEAN member states aimed at recovering critical minerals from electronic waste and scrap materials. The funding will support projects across the broader region rather than being directed solely towards India.

The initiative reflects growing efforts by Quad members to secure alternative sources of strategic minerals that are essential for advanced manufacturing, clean energy technologies, batteries, semiconductors and defence systems.

The partners are also encouraging private-sector investment in waste collection networks, processing facilities and refining capacity. Alongside this, they intend to explore ways of streamlining cross-border trade procedures for recyclable materials while strengthening adherence to existing regulatory frameworks.

The ministers further voiced concern over economic coercion, arbitrary export controls and non-market practices that could disrupt supply chains in critical sectors.

The Atlanta meeting marked the Quad’s third ministerial-level engagement of the year, following earlier gatherings in May and July. Japanese officials said the discussions lasted around 40 minutes and focused on translating previous commitments into practical outcomes.

The maritime surveillance initiative and the Quad Critical Minerals Initiative Framework were both first announced during the ministers’ meeting in New Delhi in May. Since then, the grouping has increasingly shifted towards implementing practical measures in areas ranging from maritime security and disaster response to critical mineral resilience and emerging technologies.

Reflecting that evolution, Marco Rubio stated that the Quad has moved beyond merely discussing challenges and is increasingly focused on delivering tangible cooperation. As he noted after the meeting, the grouping is becoming a forum where member states identify areas for collaboration and take concrete action to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

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Scatter The Fleet, Multiply The Threat: India’s Missile Catamaran Concept For Indo-Pacific Sea Denial

As the Indian Navy adapts to an era dominated by precision-guided weapons, unmanned systems and network-centric warfare, attention is increasingly turning towards dispersed maritime force structures capable of delivering significant combat power without relying exclusively on a small number of expensive capital warships.

A proposed 60-metre, 500-ton missile catamaran reflects this evolving philosophy, offering a compact yet heavily armed platform designed to enhance India's ability to secure critical Sea Lines of Communication across the Indian Ocean Region and the wider Indo-Pacific.

The concept is rooted in the principle of distributed lethality, whereby offensive and defensive firepower is dispersed across numerous interconnected platforms rather than concentrated aboard a handful of high-value vessels. This approach seeks to reduce vulnerability to modern saturation attacks and long-range precision missiles while maintaining a credible deterrent and combat capability.

Designed around a high-speed catamaran hull, the vessel measures approximately 60 metres in length, with a beam of around 13.7 metres and a displacement of 500 tons. Powered by waterjet propulsion, it is expected to sustain speeds of between 30 and 35 knots. Despite its relatively small size, the platform is envisioned as a multi-role combatant capable of undertaking missile strike missions, air-defence duties, anti-submarine warfare operations and littoral security tasks.

A defining feature of the design is its ability to accommodate four standard 40-foot ISO mission containers. The vessel also incorporates an unmanned aerial vehicle landing deck, an enclosed hangar, maintenance facilities and a centrally positioned 50-ton Safe Working Load electro-hydraulic knuckle-boom crane. These additions transform the ship into a flexible combat platform able to rapidly adapt to changing operational requirements.

The choice of a catamaran hull provides several advantages over traditional mono-hull missile boats. The wider beam significantly improves transverse stability, offering a steadier platform for missile launches, radar operations and drone handling.

The twin-hull arrangement also creates a large central deck area for mission modules, support equipment and aviation facilities. Furthermore, its shallow draft enhances access to coastal waters, island chains and confined maritime chokepoints, while high-speed waterjet propulsion supports rapid manoeuvring, strike operations and swift dispersal following engagement.

"The proposed 60-metre, 500-ton catamaran shifts the Indian Navy toward distributed lethality, delivering heavy combat capability without relying solely on large, expensive warships."

The vessel's primary combat strength lies in its modular, containerised weapons architecture. By utilising four mission containers, operators can tailor the ship for heavy anti-surface warfare, air-defence missions, electronic warfare operations, loitering munition deployment or anti-submarine missions.

In its offensive configuration, the catamaran can reportedly carry up to 16 BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles. Such a loadout would provide a level of striking power comparable to that of significantly larger frigates and destroyers. The BrahMos missile's combination of supersonic speed, low-altitude sea-skimming flight profile and land-attack capability presents a formidable challenge to enemy air-defence networks.

A flotilla of four such vessels could collectively deploy 64 BrahMos missiles, enabling coordinated saturation attacks from multiple directions. This would greatly complicate enemy defensive calculations while allowing India to distribute major offensive firepower across a larger number of survivable platforms.

Alternatively, the catamaran can be configured as an air-defence vessel carrying up to 32 Barak missiles. In this role, it would provide protection against anti-ship missiles, drones, maritime patrol aircraft and loitering munitions. Within larger naval task groups, these vessels could serve as supplementary missile magazines, helping preserve the vertical launch system inventories of frontline destroyers and frigates.

The modular container-based architecture also simplifies logistics and future upgrades. Missile modules can be maintained, stored and certified ashore before installation. New capabilities, including directed-energy weapons, autonomous vessel control centres and drone swarm launch systems, could potentially be incorporated in future without major structural modifications.

"Despite its light 500-ton displacement, the platform packs dense firepower by housing up to 16 BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missiles or 32 Barak air-defence missiles in modular containers."

Unmanned systems form another key element of the concept. The vessel's dedicated landing area, hangar and workshop enable extensive drone operations. Reconnaissance drones operating up to 100 to 150 kilometres ahead of the vessel could extend sensor coverage far beyond the ship's radar horizon, providing intelligence, surveillance and over-the-horizon targeting data for missile engagements.

For anti-submarine missions, specialised drones could deploy sonobuoys, process acoustic information and transmit tracking data to fleet units. Surface and electronic warfare drones could support deception operations, signal relay functions and precision strike missions, enhancing manned-unmanned teaming during high-threat operations.

The design also incorporates optionally manned capability. During routine peacetime deployments, the vessel could operate with a reduced crew. In wartime or particularly dangerous missions, remotely supervised autonomous operations could reduce risks to personnel while maintaining combat effectiveness.

One of the concept's most innovative aspects is its proposed forward rearming model centred on Campbell Bay in Great Nicobar Island. Positioned near the western approaches to the Malacca Strait, Campbell Bay offers an ideal location for sustained surveillance and rapid response operations around one of the world's most strategically important maritime chokepoints.

Rather than relying on labour-intensive missile-by-missile reloading procedures, the catamaran employs complete container replacement. To support this approach independently of shore infrastructure, the ship carries a centreline electro-hydraulic crane capable of handling fully loaded mission containers weighing up to 30 tons. The crane provides full 360-degree slewing and can operate in sea conditions up to Sea State 3.

According to the concept, replacing a mission container would require approximately 45 minutes, including rigging, transfer, positioning and systems integration. A complete replacement of all four mission modules could be accomplished in roughly three hours.

After combat system verification checks, total turnaround would be approximately five to seven hours, potentially reduced to four to six hours during wartime conditions. Refuelling, stores replenishment, drone servicing and crew changes could occur simultaneously, further improving operational availability.

Operationally, the missile catamaran offers a broad range of applications. Along India's coastline, it could function as a mobile coastal strike platform capable of rapidly changing positions to complicate enemy targeting. Around the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Lakshadweep archipelago, these vessels could establish powerful sea-denial zones covering critical maritime routes and chokepoints.

In combat operations, the catamaran would employ hit-and-run tactics, low-observable characteristics and drone-assisted targeting to ambush hostile naval formations. Equipped with Barak missiles, it could also escort replenishment vessels, amphibious ships and commercial convoys without requiring the diversion of high-value destroyers.

"Equipped with a dedicated landing pad, hangar and workshop, the optionally manned vessel deploys air and surface drones to extend its sensor horizon and execute over-the-horizon targeting."

As naval warfare increasingly shifts towards distributed operations, unmanned platforms and networked combat systems, the missile catamaran concept illustrates how smaller vessels could play a disproportionately large role in future maritime conflicts while complementing, rather than replacing, the Indian Navy's larger surface combatants.

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JAI: Rajnath Singh Reinforces India’s Strategic Ties With Japan And Australia At ASEAN Defence Summit

India’s close engagement with key Indo-Pacific partners was on display at the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) in Cebu, the Philippines, as Defence Minister Rajnath Singh met his counterparts from Japan and Australia.

In a symbolic show of solidarity, Singh shared a photograph alongside Japanese Defence Minister Shinjirō Koizumi and Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles, captioning it: “JAI: Japan, Australia, India”. The image reflected the growing strategic alignment among the three nations in support of a stable Indo-Pacific region.

On the sidelines of the ADMM-Plus gathering, Singh held talks with Koizumi and explored ways to further strengthen bilateral defence cooperation between India and Japan.

Following the meeting, Singh stated: “Happy to meet with the Minister of Defence of Japan, Mr. Koizumi Shinjiro, on the sidelines of the 13th ADMM-Plus in Cebu, Philippines.”

Emphasising the broader strategic significance of the partnership, he added: “Our shared commitment remains vital for a free, open, and peaceful Indo-Pacific region.”

Koizumi thanked Singh for the warm welcome and productive discussions, while reaffirming Japan’s commitment to deepening cooperation with India across a range of sectors, including defence.

Singh also held a bilateral meeting with Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles. The discussions focused on reviewing ongoing defence cooperation and identifying new avenues for closer coordination between the two countries.

Underscoring the importance of the relationship, Singh said: “India places great value on its Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Australia for a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific.”

The two leaders exchanged gifts as a gesture of goodwill and friendship during their meeting.

Singh also invited Marles to attend Aero India-2027, which is scheduled to take place in Bangalore in February 2027.

The meetings highlighted India’s continued efforts to strengthen defence and security partnerships with like-minded regional powers amid increasing emphasis on maintaining stability, security and freedom of navigation across the Indo-Pacific.

ADMM is ASEAN’s highest defence consultative and cooperative mechanism, while ADMM-Plus brings together ASEAN member states and eight dialogue partners: India, the United States, China, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Australia and New Zealand. The platform is designed to promote practical security cooperation, confidence-building and dialogue on regional defence challenges.

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ASEAN Centrality Remains Key Pillar of India’s Act East Policy And Indo-Pacific Vision: Rajnath Singh

India has reaffirmed its strong commitment to ASEAN centrality, describing it as a fundamental pillar of the country’s Act East Policy and broader Indo-Pacific vision.

Addressing the 13th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), Defence Minister Rajnath Singh stressed the importance of the forum in promoting a resilient, secure and prosperous regional order amid evolving security challenges.

Reiterating New Delhi’s position, Singh said, “On this occasion, India reiterates its unwavering commitment to ASEAN centrality, which is a cornerstone of our Act East Policy and Indo-Pacific vision. This forum is important for maintaining a resilient, secure and prosperous region. I hope today’s ADMM meeting will help strengthen our mutual trust, tackle emerging disruptions and advance defence cooperation.”

The Defence Minister also thanked the Philippines for successfully hosting the ADMM-Plus gathering and for extending warm hospitality to participating delegations.

“I express my sincere gratitude to the Philippines for the successful conduct of the 30th ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus and for the warm hospitality. Today, we are discussing our shared security concerns,” he said.

India’s Act East Policy is aimed at deepening economic cooperation, strengthening cultural links and expanding strategic partnerships across the Asia-Pacific through sustained bilateral, regional and multilateral engagement. The policy also seeks to enhance connectivity between India’s North Eastern states, including Arunachal Pradesh, and neighbouring countries.

The initiative places significant emphasis on India-ASEAN cooperation, complementing domestic priorities such as infrastructure development, manufacturing expansion, trade growth, skills enhancement, urban renewal, smart cities and the Make in India campaign.

Within the Indo-Pacific framework, India advocates the vision of Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions (MAHASAGAR). The Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI), unveiled by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in 2019, further outlines India’s maritime approach and regional engagement strategy.

On the sidelines of the ADMM-Plus meeting in Cebu, Rajnath Singh held bilateral talks with Philippine Secretary of National Defence Gilberto C. Teodoro Jr. The discussions reviewed the progress of ongoing defence cooperation and explored new opportunities to deepen the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Both sides placed particular focus on maritime security, a growing area of collaboration in the region, as well as prospects for joint defence production and broader defence-industrial cooperation.

The meeting reflects the increasing convergence between India and ASEAN member states on regional security, maritime stability and rules-based cooperation across the Indo-Pacific, while reinforcing ASEAN’s central role in the evolving regional architecture.

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Zero Tolerance On Terrorism Expected From Partners, Says Jaishankar As Rubio Pays Tribute At 26/11 Memorial

External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar welcomed US Secretary of State Marco Rubio’s visit to Mumbai and his tribute at the Taj Hotel’s 26/11 Memorial, stating that India remains firm in its right to defend itself against terrorism and expects its international partners to adopt a zero-tolerance approach towards terrorism.

He also welcomed the US administration’s decision to extradite Tahawwur Hussain Rana, describing him as one of the key perpetrators linked to the 26/11 Mumbai terror attacks.

Speaking at the Freedom 250 reception in Mumbai, organised to mark the 250th anniversary of American independence, Jaishankar said the gesture at the memorial was appreciated not only by Mumbai but by all of India. He stressed that combating terrorism remains a critical issue in India-US relations.

The minister observed that the international order is undergoing significant change, with countries increasingly focused on advancing their national interests. In such an environment, he said, expanding areas of convergence would be essential to strengthening bilateral ties and ensuring that cooperation continues to deepen.

Jaishankar highlighted growing opportunities across trade, investment, technology and energy. He said sustained dialogue and a clear identification of common objectives would help both nations develop a practical roadmap for future cooperation. He added that India and the United States also share responsibilities in promoting peace, stability and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific region.

Reflecting on the broader trajectory of bilateral relations, Jaishankar noted that many Americans had supported India’s struggle for independence. He said that cooperation in infrastructure, education, food security, agriculture and technology had contributed significantly to India’s development, while Indian talent and skills had played an important role in shaping the technology sector in the United States.

He acknowledged that differences had existed over the years, including contrasting approaches to global issues. However, he said the partnership had expanded steadily over recent decades and acquired new dimensions. Initiatives such as the Quad, Mission 500, Pax Silica and the Forge Initiative were cited as examples of growing collaboration, alongside notable progress in energy, defence and civil aviation.

Jaishankar said Mumbai was a particularly appropriate venue for the celebrations due to its unique role in India’s engagement with the United States. Describing the city as India’s financial capital and a centre for cinema, education, research and technology, he noted that its entrepreneurial character is reflected in its ports, sporting traditions, cultural life, media landscape and music industry.

He further remarked that Mumbai serves as one of India’s key gateways to the world and remains deeply invested in strengthening ties with the United States. According to Jaishankar, the city’s relationship with America dates back to the historic ice trade and has since evolved into a major partnership centred on finance, commerce and technology.

The Freedom 250 event brought together senior Indian and American representatives, including Rubio and US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor, underscoring the growing breadth of India-US cooperation at a time of shifting global dynamics and shared strategic interests.

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India, US Military Chiefs Hold High-Level New Delhi Talks To Deepen Strategic Defence Partnership

The United States Embassy in India hosted a high-level gathering of senior American and Indian military leaders at Roosevelt House in New Delhi, highlighting the growing momentum behind the India-US Major Defence Partnership.

Among those attending were Admiral Samuel Paparo, Commander of the US Pacific Command (USPACOM), Montana Governor Greg Gianforte, Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, and other senior Indian defence officials.

The event underscored the increasingly close military relationship between New Delhi and Washington at a time when both countries are expanding cooperation across the Indo-Pacific and seeking deeper strategic alignment on regional security challenges.

The US mission described Admiral Paparo’s visit as another significant step in strengthening bilateral defence ties, noting that the engagement reflected the growing depth and importance of the India-US defence relationship.

Admiral Paparo arrived in New Delhi on 3 October for a six-day official visit focused on advancing military-to-military cooperation and reinforcing the broader strategic partnership between the two countries.

During the visit, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh held discussions with Admiral Paparo in the national capital. The talks centred on strengthening defence and strategic cooperation, while both sides also exchanged views on key regional and global developments.

The meeting reflected the increasing frequency of high-level engagements between Indian and American defence establishments as both nations place greater emphasis on security cooperation, emerging technologies and regional stability.

Earlier in the visit, Admiral Paparo also met senior Indian military leaders, including Chief of Defence Staff General N. S. Raja Subramani, Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth, Vice Chief of the Air Staff Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Air Marshal Tarandeep Singh.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described Admiral Paparo as one of America’s most consequential military leaders, noting that he commands the United States’ oldest and largest geographic combatant command.

USPACOM oversees approximately 4,00,000 military and civilian personnel across a region covering nearly half the globe, making it a central pillar of American strategic presence in the Indo-Pacific.

The ambassador said the gathering at Roosevelt House showcased the growing strength, ambition and significance of the India-US Major Defence Partnership and brought together key military leaders from both countries to reinforce strategic engagement.

The visit comes amid sustained efforts by India and the United States to expand cooperation in areas such as maritime security, interoperability, defence technology, digital transformation, emerging and critical technologies, defence energy resilience and maintaining stability across the Indo-Pacific region.

Recent bilateral engagements, including military exercises and regular high-level dialogues, have further strengthened defence cooperation, reflecting the steady evolution of the India-US relationship into one of the most consequential strategic partnerships in the Indo-Pacific.

The participation of Montana Governor Greg Gianforte also underscored the broader nature of bilateral ties, which increasingly combine defence cooperation with growing economic and technological engagement.

Together, the meetings and discussions held during Admiral Paparo’s visit highlighted the continuing expansion of India-US strategic cooperation and the shared commitment of both nations to strengthening security collaboration in an increasingly complex regional environment.

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India, US Review Indo-Pacific Security, Strengthen Defence Cooperation

India and the United States have discussed ways to expand bilateral defence cooperation while reviewing the changing security environment in the Indo-Pacific.

The discussions took place in New Delhi on Monday between Indian Army Chief General Dhiraj Seth and Lieutenant General Joel B Vowell, Deputy Commanding General of the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC).

The Indian Army said the two military leaders examined the evolving security landscape in the Indo-Pacific and explored opportunities to advance bilateral defence engagement across multiple domains.

Their talks also focused on improving interoperability through joint training and military exercises.

The Indian Army said the successful conclusion of Exercise Yudh Abhyas 2026 demonstrated the effective coordination of joint operations and reaffirmed both armies’ commitment to stronger military-to-military cooperation.

The 22nd edition of Yudh Abhyas was conducted at Auli in Uttarakhand and the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan. The exercise brought together around 600 personnel from each country and included training across multiple operational scenarios.

The exercise also featured high-altitude warfare training, long-range precision fires, counter-drone operations and integrated command-and-control activities, further broadening the scope of bilateral military cooperation.

On Monday, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh separately met a visiting bipartisan US Congressional delegation led by Representative Brian Mast, Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee.

The discussions centred on strengthening the India-US Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership, with particular emphasis on defence industrial and technological cooperation.

The Ministry of Defence said the meeting examined ways to deepen strategic ties between the two countries, including through greater collaboration in defence technology, production and industrial capabilities.

Over the preceding week, Indian and US military contingents trained side by side under Yudh Abhyas 2026.

The drills covered diverse platforms and tactical situations, with the aim of improving interoperability and strengthening the troops’ familiarity with each other’s operational procedures, tactics and techniques.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor described the exercise as a reflection of the strength of the defence partnership between the two countries. During a visit to the Mahajan Field Firing Range in Rajasthan, Gor observed Indian and US forces conducting joint training.

In a post on X, he said the exercise demonstrated the partnership’s trust, readiness, interoperability and shared purpose.

“Impressive to see US and Indian forces training together at Mahajan Field Firing Range,” Gor said. “This exercise reflects the strength of our defence partnership, trust, readiness, interoperability, and shared purpose. Proud of what US Army and Indian Army are achieving together.”

The latest engagements highlight the growing focus on operational coordination, defence technology and military readiness within the India-US strategic partnership.

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India-Japan Air Power Ties Soar As Veer Guardian 2026 Concludes In Jodhpur

The Indian Air Force (IAF) and the Japan Air Self Defence Force (JASDF) have successfully concluded the bilateral air exercise Veer Guardian 2026 at Air Force Station Jodhpur, marking another significant milestone in the steadily expanding strategic and military partnership between India and Japan.

The exercise concluded on September 22 after 14 days of intensive joint training designed to enhance interoperability, improve operational coordination and strengthen the professional relationship between the two air forces.

Conducted in Rajasthan's Jodhpur, the exercise brought together some of the most capable fighter aircraft currently operated by both nations.

The IAF deployed its frontline combat aircraft, including the Su-30 MKI, Rafale and the indigenous Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) TEJAS.

The JASDF participated with its Mitsubishi F-2A fighter aircraft, a multirole platform developed specifically for Japan's air defence requirements. Throughout the exercise, aircrew from both nations undertook a wide spectrum of advanced flying missions that tested operational planning, tactical execution and air combat coordination.

These missions included Within Visual Range combat engagements, allowing pilots to sharpen close-range aerial combat skills under realistic operational conditions. The participating aircraft also carried out coordinated multi-aircraft missions that required complex planning, communication and execution involving multiple fighter platforms from both sides.

Such missions are considered critical for improving interoperability because they help pilots and mission planners understand each other's tactics, procedures and operational philosophies.

A major highlight of the exercise was the Distinguished Visitor's Day, during which JASDF Chief of Staff General Takehiro Morita and Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal A.P. Singh visited Air Force Station Jodhpur.

In a notable display of professional engagement and mutual confidence, both air chiefs flew the indigenous TEJAS fighter aircraft.

The flight underscored the growing importance of India's domestically developed combat aviation capabilities and highlighted the increasing visibility of the Tejas among international military partners.

Beyond aerial operations, Veer Guardian 2026 featured extensive ground-based interactions between personnel from both air forces. These engagements included Subject Matter Expert exchanges covering operational concepts, tactical employment, maintenance procedures and technical best practices.

The exercise also incorporated operational discussions and mission planning conferences, enabling both sides to exchange ideas on contemporary air warfare and joint mission execution.

Engineering interactions formed another important component of the engagement, providing opportunities for technical personnel to gain insights into aircraft support systems, maintenance methodologies and sustainment practices.

Maintenance-related engagements allowed ground crews from India and Japan to study each other's procedures and operational standards, contributing to improved understanding of aircraft readiness and support requirements.

Aerospace safety briefings were also conducted during the exercise, giving participants an opportunity to discuss flight safety, risk management and operational safety protocols. These interactions enabled both contingents to gain valuable exposure to each other's best practices while also learning from their respective operational experiences and unique capabilities.

Veer Guardian 2026 was particularly significant because it represented the second edition of the bilateral air exercise between India and Japan.

The inaugural Veer Guardian exercise was held at Hyakuri Air Base in Japan in January 2023 and marked the first-ever fighter aircraft exercise conducted between the IAF and JASDF.

The 2026 edition was also notable for bringing Japanese fighter aircraft to India for operational training, further deepening defence cooperation between the two countries. The participation of the indigenous Tejas alongside the Rafale and Su-30MKI allowed India to showcase the breadth of its fighter fleet and demonstrate the maturation of its domestic aerospace industry.

For Japan, the deployment of the F-2A fighter aircraft provided an opportunity to conduct dissimilar air combat training against a diverse range of Indian platforms, generating valuable operational lessons.

The exercise reflects the broader strengthening of India-Japan strategic ties, which have expanded significantly over the past decade across defence, maritime security, technology and regional security cooperation.

Both countries are key partners in the Indo-Pacific region and share a common interest in maintaining a free, open and rules-based maritime and security environment.

Veer Guardian complements other India-Japan military engagements such as the Army exercise Dharma Guardian and the naval exercise JIMEX, demonstrating growing cooperation across all three military services.

The successful conclusion of Veer Guardian 2026 stands as a testament to the enduring friendship, professional camaraderie and mutual trust shared by the Indian Air Force and the Japan Air Self Defence Force.

The exercise has further strengthened operational understanding between the two forces and is expected to contribute significantly to future collaboration, interoperability and the strategic depth of the India-Japan defence partnership.

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India And Japan Elevate Strategic Ties With Focus On Defence Technology, Deep-Tech And Regional Security

In a significant move towards strengthening bilateral operational ties, India and Japan held detailed high-level discussions on Tuesday aimed at expanding their defence technology collaboration, joint military drills, and strategic coordination to ensure peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

The bilateral deliberation was conducted in New Delhi between Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and a visiting delegation of Japanese parliamentarians belonging to the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), spearheaded by Taro Kono, who serves as the Director General of International Cooperation at the LDP and has previously held key portfolios as Japan's Defence Minister, Foreign Minister, and Digital Minister.

Sharing details of the key meeting on X, the Ministry of Defence highlighted that Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Japanese lawmaker Taro Kono engaged in a highly productive exchange of perspectives.

Their conversation focused primarily on strengthening bilateral defence technology collaboration, scaling up joint military exercises, and enhancing regional security cooperation to bolster an open and secure Indo-Pacific framework.

This critical defence dialogue followed an earlier round of bilateral talks held on Monday, where the visiting Japanese contingent met Indian Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri. During that meeting, both sides explored strategies to sustain the upward momentum across multiple bilateral domains, incorporating defence capabilities, economic security, supply chain hardening, commercial partnerships, trade, investments, technology, innovation ecosystems, and people-to-people bonds.

The high-profile delegation from Tokyo visited India under the prestigious India-Japan Distinguished Visitors Program, spanning from 18 to 22 September 2026. Aside from Taro Kono, the visiting group of Japanese parliamentarians featured prominent figures such as Kenji Nakanishi, Deputy Chairperson of the LDP Policy Research Council; Karen Makishima, Acting Director of the LDP International Bureau and Deputy Chair of the Committee for the Promotion of a Digital Society; and Sakon Yamamoto.

During their ongoing interaction, the Japanese lawmakers closely observed the swift advancements achieved within India's indigenous deep-tech enterprise, research infrastructure, and innovation ecosystems.

Applauding the impressive pace and scale of national economic expansion, the delegation underlined India's formidable manufacturing strengths, pointing out the vast mutual opportunities generated for allied global partners.

To systematically reduce risks and reinforce overall supply chain dependability, both administrations thoroughly evaluated the strategic imperatives required to erect a heightened economic security framework.

As detailed in an official press release issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), both sides emphasised the critical role of the India-Japan Special Strategic and Global Partnership amidst the current rapid global economic and political churn.

Grounded in deep political trust, mutual goodwill, and a unified strategic worldview, this partnership acts as a central anchor for long-term peace in the Indo-Pacific. Both sides recognized the immediate imperative to accelerate the scope and depth of India-Japan engagement, aligning directly with the strategic vectors set out by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi during the 16th Annual Summit.

Prior to arriving in the national capital for political discussions, the Japanese delegation initiated their itinerary in Bangalore, where they conducted detailed inspections of key technological and scientific installations.

Their site visits in Bangalore included the Indian Institute of Science (IISc), the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO), and the defence public sector undertaking Bharat Electronics Limited (BEL). Commenting on the visit on X, the Indian Embassy in Japan remarked that such exchange programs exemplify ongoing bilateral synergy and unlock new possibilities for future cooperation.

The Indian Embassy in Japan further noted that the active collaboration between India and Japan spanning artificial intelligence, advanced technology, space exploration, defence systems, and Start-Up ecosystems forms an essential component of their special strategic global partnership.

The overall outreach initiative under the Distinguished Visitors Program was designed to brief Japanese lawmakers on contemporary Indian domestic progress, provide direct exposure to ground realities, and establish actionable, first-hand dialogues with primary stakeholders.

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