'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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China's Shadow Looms Large As Vietnam Seeks Real-Time Intel From India As Security Ties Expand

National Security Adviser Ajit Doval’s visit to Vietnam has attracted attention in India for his visit to a Buddhist temple and the religious rituals he performed, India Today reported.

However, discussions held in Hanoi reveal a far broader strategic agenda centred on intelligence cooperation, cybersecurity, defence collaboration and the exchange of sensitive information.

The visit comes at a time when Vietnam continues to face pressure from China’s expansive claims in the South China Sea, while India is strengthening its role in the Indo-Pacific through deeper engagement with key regional partners.

Doval arrived in Hanoi on November 1 and held meetings with Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister General Phan Van Giang as well as Public Security Minister General Luong Tam Quang. The discussions focused on strengthening security cooperation at a time of growing regional uncertainty and increasing geopolitical competition.

One of the most significant outcomes of the meetings was Vietnam’s proposal to strengthen strategic intelligence exchanges with India, including the sharing of real-time information on political, strategic and security developments.

According to the Vietnamese side, both countries agreed to improve mechanisms for exchanging assessments of regional and international security trends, emerging threats and non-traditional security challenges.

The discussions also explored ways to establish faster and more trusted communication channels between senior leaders in both countries. Such arrangements would move beyond traditional intelligence cooperation by enabling more rapid responses to evolving security situations and improving situational awareness for both governments.

Vietnam additionally expressed interest in accelerating negotiations on a range of security-related agreements covering classified information, transnational crime and human trafficking. While no new intelligence-sharing agreement was signed during Doval’s visit, Hanoi’s proposals highlighted its desire to institutionalise deeper security coordination with New Delhi.

A particularly important proposal involved an agreement on the mutual protection and exchange of classified information. During his meeting with Doval, General Luong Tam Quang urged India’s National Security Council Secretariat to work with relevant agencies to advance discussions on such a framework.

The National Security Council Secretariat, which operates under the leadership of the National Security Adviser, plays a central role in coordinating India’s national security policies and advising the Prime Minister on strategic, defence, intelligence and cybersecurity matters. A classified-information protection arrangement would significantly enhance confidence between the two countries and facilitate more sensitive exchanges in the future.

Vietnam also sought greater cooperation with India in areas such as artificial intelligence, digital transformation, cybersecurity incident response and specialised training. These requests reflect Hanoi’s wider efforts to modernise its technological and security infrastructure amid increasingly complex regional challenges.

The proposals build upon several engagements already conducted this year. India and Vietnam held a Cyber Policy Dialogue in January, followed by their first Cybersecurity Consultation in September. Their fourth Deputy Minister-level Security Dialogue in New Delhi on October 16 covered issues ranging from economic security and maritime cooperation to counterterrorism, emerging technologies and cybersecurity.

The two countries have also discussed creating a joint counterterrorism working group, although no formal announcement regarding its establishment has yet been made.

India’s public readout of Doval’s meetings was brief. The Indian Embassy in Hanoi stated that Doval and General Phan Van Giang reviewed ongoing bilateral defence cooperation and agreed to deepen engagement further.

Vietnam’s account, however, provided greater detail. General Giang described defence cooperation as one of the most important pillars of the upgraded bilateral relationship and invited Indian defence companies to participate in the Vietnam International Defence Expo scheduled for December 2026.

According to the Vietnamese side, Doval stressed the importance of working with trusted partners in an increasingly unpredictable global environment. Vietnam also sought Indian assistance in training police peacekeepers and supporting security preparations for the APEC Summit that the country will host in 2027.

The broader security relationship between India and Vietnam has been gathering momentum for several years. In July 2023, India gifted the missile corvette INS Kirpan, along with its weapons package, to the Vietnamese Navy. New Delhi has also supplied 12 high-speed guard boats to Vietnam under a US$100 million defence credit facility, enhancing Hanoi’s maritime surveillance and coastal security capabilities.

Cooperation accelerated further in May 2026 when Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited Hanoi. During that visit, both countries signed an agreement covering cooperation in artificial intelligence and quantum technologies.

Maritime security, defence manufacturing and military training also featured prominently in discussions, with both sides reaffirming support for freedom of navigation and a rules-based order in the Indo-Pacific.

Another major milestone came with the conclusion of the BrahMos missile agreement. On May 30, Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh confirmed that an agreement to supply BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles to Vietnam had already been signed. Reports suggested the deal could be worth around ₹6,000 crore, although detailed contract terms and delivery schedules remain undisclosed.

The strategic importance of the India-Vietnam partnership is closely linked to Vietnam’s geographic position and its longstanding maritime disputes with China. Beijing claims vast areas of the South China Sea, including waters also claimed by Vietnam and several other Southeast Asian states. The region contains some of the world’s busiest shipping lanes and has repeatedly witnessed confrontations between Chinese vessels and those of neighbouring countries.

For Vietnam, cooperation with India provides access to advanced defence equipment, naval support, training opportunities and potentially enhanced intelligence-sharing arrangements without the need to enter into a formal military alliance. It also diversifies Hanoi’s strategic partnerships as it seeks to maintain its independent foreign policy while balancing regional power dynamics.

For India, closer ties with Vietnam strengthen its strategic presence in Southeast Asia and support its wider Act East Policy. The partnership also complements India’s vision of a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific founded on international law, freedom of navigation and peaceful resolution of disputes.

Neither India nor Vietnam publicly stated that China was explicitly discussed during Doval’s meetings. Nevertheless, the context surrounding the visit is difficult to overlook. Vietnam remains one of the countries most directly affected by China’s maritime claims, while India has steadily expanded its security engagement across Southeast Asia.

The latest discussions suggest that bilateral cooperation is evolving beyond traditional defence ties into more sensitive domains such as intelligence sharing, cybersecurity, advanced technologies and strategic communications.

Although Beijing was not directly mentioned, China’s growing influence and increasingly assertive actions in the region appear to be an important factor shaping the strategic calculations of both New Delhi and Hanoi.

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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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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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G20 Foreign Ministers Conclude Atlanta Summit Without Consensus As EAM Jaishankar Pushes Diplomacy And Economic Stability

Foreign ministers from the world’s leading economies concluded two days of discussions in Atlanta without reaching agreement on several major global security challenges, underscoring the persistent divisions within the G20 ahead of the leaders’ summit later this year,

The meeting, hosted under the United States’ G20 presidency, served as an important precursor to the G20 Leaders’ Summit scheduled to take place at Trump National Doral in Miami on 14-15 December, where trade, energy security, the Ukraine conflict and developments in the Gulf are expected to feature prominently on the agenda.

Representing India, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar used the three plenary sessions to deliver a clear message that “diplomacy, not military force, must be given a chance”, while stressing that developing countries continue to bear the economic consequences of crises they had no role in creating.

Jaishankar argued that nations of the Global South are paying a disproportionately high price for disruptions caused by geopolitical conflicts. He warned that attacks on civilian shipping and seafarers have direct repercussions for the availability and cost of fuel, food and fertiliser across developing economies.

Calling for freedom of navigation in accordance with international law, including the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS), he highlighted a new joint initiative launched by India and Liberia aimed at enhancing the protection and welfare of seafarers operating in increasingly volatile maritime environments.

Addressing energy security, Jaishankar said the world is confronting an energy crisis driven less by production shortages and more by unpredictability, disruption and unaffordable costs. He argued that deliberate attacks targeting energy infrastructure and trade routes are being used as a means of holding prices hostage, while sanctions and strategic chokepoints continue to distort global markets.

He stressed that the impact of such disruptions is felt most acutely by low-income and developing nations. In particular, he emphasised India’s need for reliable and predictable LPG supplies to support clean cooking initiatives for millions of households.

The Indian minister also drew attention to India's National Mission on Critical Minerals, describing critical mineral security as an increasingly important element of economic resilience and energy transition strategies. In this context, he proposed the creation of a G20 Critical Minerals Circularity Initiative to strengthen sustainable supply chains and recycling efforts.

During the final session, Jaishankar said the right of countries to industrialise must be protected. He warned against what he described as “predatory practices” and urged nations to diversify and de-risk supply chains in order to reduce strategic vulnerabilities.

He further called on the G20 to work towards the “de-politicisation” of markets, arguing that finance, resources and production networks should not be transformed into geopolitical weapons. He also cautioned that short-term tactical calculations must not result in policymakers overlooking the enduring threat posed by terrorism.

Beyond the formal sessions, Jaishankar conducted an extensive series of bilateral meetings with foreign ministers and senior officials from Argentina, Canada, Mexico, Brazil, Germany, South Korea and Poland.

His discussions with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and European Union foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas focused on developments in Ukraine and the evolving situation in the Gulf. During talks with Polish Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski, discussions covered the Ukraine conflict, India-European Union relations and broader G20 priorities.

On the sidelines of the ministerial gathering, Jaishankar also participated in the third Quad Foreign Ministers’ Meeting of 2026, following earlier engagements in New Delhi and Manila. The four countries reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining stability in the Indo-Pacific while advancing cooperation on supply chain resilience, critical minerals, energy security and maritime security.

The Atlanta gathering was widely viewed as an early indicator of the challenges facing negotiators before the leaders’ summit in Miami. While ministers were unable to forge consensus on several key security issues, discussions highlighted growing concern over global supply chains, maritime safety, energy market volatility and the wider economic consequences of ongoing geopolitical conflicts.

With divisions still evident among major powers, attention now shifts to Miami, where leaders will attempt to bridge differences and find common ground on some of the most pressing international economic and security challenges facing the world today.

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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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IAF Expands Extended-Range Operational Focus As Indo-Pacific Security Dynamics Intensify

The Indian Air Force (IAF) is maintaining a close watch on developments across the Indo-Pacific and is strengthening a range of capabilities designed to protect India’s national interests across vast distances, according to Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal AP Singh.

His remarks come at a time when strategic competition is increasing across the Indo-Pacific, a region that has become a focal point of global security discussions. Concerns have been growing internationally over heightened military activity and power projection in the area, while India, the United States, Japan, Australia and other partners continue to advocate a free, open and rules-based regional order.

In an exclusive interaction with PTI, Air Chief Marshal Singh underscored that India’s priorities remain firmly centred on protecting its national interests, sovereignty and strategic autonomy while supporting a rules-based Indo-Pacific framework.

Highlighting the operational requirements needed to achieve that objective, he said, "From the IAF's perspective, this demands a specific set of capabilities. We need reach, persistent surveillance, air mobility, air-domain awareness, networked command and control, and the ability to operate effectively over extended distances."

The Air Chief pointed to the strategic importance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, describing them as a vital launch point for operations across the eastern Indian Ocean Region. According to him, the combination of aerial refuelling assets and airborne early warning platforms significantly enhances the IAF’s ability to project power and maintain awareness far from the Indian mainland.

"Our strategic posture in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands provides a critical springboard for operations in the eastern Indian Ocean Region. Aerial refuelling and airborne early warning give us the reach and awareness to operate far from our shores," he said.

Without naming any specific country, Air Chief Marshal Singh also reflected on the rapid geopolitical shifts taking place across the Indo-Pacific, where military deployments, strategic competition and regional rivalries have intensified in recent years.

"The Indo-Pacific has become central to global security, and it is marked by growing military activity, strategic competition and contestation," he said.

He further noted that recent developments in the region's maritime domain demonstrate the importance of maintaining readiness and strengthening cooperation among like-minded nations.

"Recent developments across the region, including in its maritime spaces, underline the need for vigilance, credible deterrence and greater regional cooperation," he stressed.

Discussing force preparedness, the Air Chief said the IAF is enhancing cooperation with friendly foreign air forces, viewing these engagements as a means not only to improve operational capability but also to build long-term strategic trust.

He remarked that "trust itself is an enduring contributor to regional stability", highlighting the growing importance of defence partnerships in an increasingly complex security environment.

The IAF, he explained, is adopting a capability-based rather than threat-specific approach. The objective is to develop a force that can identify emerging challenges at an early stage, operate seamlessly across multiple domains and deliver the desired operational effects wherever India's interests require.

"As for preparedness, we are closely monitor developments across the Indo-Pacific. Our approach is not threat-specific. We are building an IAF that can detect emerging challenges early, operate across multiple domains, and generate the required effects wherever India's national interests demand," he said.

Emphasising the force's operational readiness, Air Chief Marshal Singh stated that the IAF remains fully prepared to defend the country and adapt to evolving security challenges.

"We are ready, and will remain ready" to safeguard India's security, he said.

A key element of that preparation has been the expansion of interoperability with partner nations. The IAF has increasingly participated in sophisticated multinational exercises and operational deployments aimed at improving coordination, logistics, long-range mission planning and joint operations.

Recent deployments to Australia, Malaysia and Thailand have enabled Indian aircrew to gain practical experience in extended-range operations, maritime air missions, large-force employment concepts and area familiarisation across strategically important regions.

The Air Chief also highlighted a notable example of regional engagement conducted in February 2026, when IAF Su-30MKI fighter aircraft operating from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands carried out an in-situ exercise with the Royal Thai Air Force over the Indian Ocean.

The mission was supported by IL-78 aerial refuelling aircraft and Indian airborne warning and control systems, demonstrating the IAF’s ability to sustain operations at long distances while coordinating with international partners.

"They were supported by IL-78 tankers and our airborne warning and control aircraft. Engagements of this kind build both capability and trust, and that trust is itself an enduring contributor to regional stability," he said.

Air Chief Marshal Singh further emphasised that future effectiveness in the Indo-Pacific will depend on a broad spectrum of advanced capabilities. Beyond traditional air power, he highlighted the growing importance of intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance assets, space-enabled systems, electronic warfare capabilities, precision-guided weapons, unmanned platforms and resilient networked architecture.

According to the Air Chief, these capabilities will be crucial for operating effectively across the vast maritime expanses of the Indo-Pacific, where awareness, reach and rapid decision-making are becoming increasingly important components of national security strategy.

India's efforts in this direction are also supported by its growing engagement with Quad partners and other friendly nations, reflecting New Delhi's broader objective of maintaining stability, preserving freedom of navigation and strengthening collective security cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region. 

Recent years have seen an increase in defence exercises, information-sharing arrangements and operational interactions aimed at reinforcing these goals while ensuring that the region remains open, inclusive and governed by internationally accepted rules.

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BrahMos Emerges As Key Threat To Chinese Warships In Philippine Marine Corps War Games

According to Philippine media reports, internal war games conducted by the Philippine Marine Corps have indicated that the Indian-made BrahMos supersonic anti-ship missile possesses the ability to penetrate the air-defence systems of Chinese guided-missile destroyers, including some of the People's Liberation Army Navy's most capable surface combatants.

The simulations were carried out as part of the Philippine military's efforts to improve operational proficiency with its newly acquired BrahMos missile batteries, which were purchased from India under a $375 million defence agreement signed in 2022.

Reports emerging from the exercises suggest that, in several simulated engagements, the BrahMos missile was assessed as the only available weapon capable of successfully reaching its target after facing layered air-defence systems deployed aboard Chinese warships.

While specific details of the internal simulation scenarios have not been publicly disclosed, the findings have attracted attention because of the growing strategic competition between Manila and Beijing in the South China Sea.

The exercises form part of a broader effort by the Philippines to strengthen its coastal strike capabilities and establish a credible maritime deterrent against increasingly sophisticated naval threats operating in disputed waters.

The BrahMos missile, jointly developed by India and Russia, is widely regarded as one of the fastest operational anti-ship cruise missiles in service. Its combination of supersonic speed, low-altitude flight profile and manoeuvrability during the terminal phase makes interception significantly more challenging than slower subsonic missile systems.

Philippine military planners have increasingly been focused on integrating the missile into a wider network of surveillance and targeting assets. This approach is intended to ensure that coastal missile batteries can engage hostile naval forces at extended ranges while remaining dispersed and difficult to locate.

Recent Philippine and United States training activities have provided additional insight into how Manila intends to employ the BrahMos operationally.

During bilateral exercises conducted in Northern Luzon, Philippine and American forces rehearsed the creation of a maritime strike kill chain using unmanned aerial systems and intelligence assets to locate, identify and track simulated hostile naval formations.

The activity involved generating targeting information for ground-launched BrahMos missiles through drone surveillance, demonstrating how a networked sensor-to-shooter architecture could be employed during a future maritime contingency.

The simulated Chinese naval task group used during separate training activities reportedly included Type-052D guided-missile destroyers, a Type-054A frigate and a Type-901 fast combat support ship. These vessels represent some of the principal surface combatant classes deployed by the People's Liberation Army Navy.

Although public reporting has not confirmed that Type-055 destroyers were specifically included in every exercise scenario, the discussion surrounding the war games has centred on the missile's ability to challenge even the most advanced Chinese naval air-defence systems.

The Type-055 is widely considered China's premier large surface combatant. Equipped with a powerful radar suite, extensive vertical launch capacity and advanced air-defence missiles, the vessel is designed to provide area air-defence protection for carrier strike groups and major naval formations.

The Philippine Marine Corps' assessment is therefore significant because it suggests that supersonic anti-ship missiles such as BrahMos could complicate the defensive calculations of even heavily protected surface action groups.

Military analysts have long argued that speed remains one of BrahMos's greatest advantages. Travelling at roughly three times the speed of sound, the missile compresses the reaction time available to defending warships, reducing the window for detection, tracking and engagement.

The Philippines has already received and operationalised its first BrahMos battery, while infrastructure development and deployment planning continue at additional locations across the archipelago.

Strategically positioned coastal missile units could allow Manila to monitor and, if necessary, threaten hostile naval vessels operating near critical maritime approaches, including areas facing the South China Sea and the Luzon Strait.

The growing emphasis on integrating drones, surveillance platforms and long-range precision strike systems reflects a broader shift in Philippine defence planning towards an archipelagic defence strategy focused on sea denial rather than direct naval confrontation.

As tensions with China continue over disputed maritime territories, the BrahMos missile is increasingly being viewed by Philippine defence planners as a central component of the country's maritime deterrence posture.

The war game results, if reflective of real-world performance, underscore why the BrahMos has gained a reputation as one of the most formidable coastal-defence missile systems currently available and why its deployment is closely watched across the Indo-Pacific region.

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India Offers Drones, Radars And Helicopters To Deepen ASEAN Defence Cooperation

India has stepped up its push for closer defence ties with ASEAN nations, with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh outlining a broad range of military cooperation opportunities focused on maritime domain awareness, interoperability and underwater capabilities.

Speaking at the ASEAN-India Defence Think Tank Forum, Singh said India is prepared to explore collaboration involving patrol vessels, radars, air-defence systems, helicopters and drones. The proposal reflects New Delhi’s wider effort to strengthen strategic and security partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

The minister emphasised that cooperation should extend beyond the simple acquisition of equipment. He called for greater focus on co-development, co-production, maintenance, repair and overhaul services, training programmes and long-term technical support arrangements that can help build local capabilities and create more resilient supply chains.

Singh noted that India’s Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative offers opportunities for trusted partners to jointly design, manufacture, maintain and upgrade defence equipment. Such collaboration could support the growth of indigenous defence industries while fostering deeper industrial integration between India and ASEAN countries.

India has been expanding its defence exports in recent years, promoting domestically developed military platforms and systems to friendly nations. Indian diplomatic missions and defence manufacturers have also been encouraged to identify and pursue overseas opportunities as part of this strategy.

The minister reiterated India’s commitment to a free, open and inclusive Indo-Pacific, stressing that all countries, regardless of size, should have the freedom to make their own sovereign choices without coercion.

The outreach to ASEAN comes amid growing regional interest in maritime security, surveillance networks and defence modernisation. As geopolitical competition intensifies across the Indo-Pacific, India is positioning itself as a reliable defence partner capable of supplying equipment, technical expertise and long-term industrial cooperation.

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Missiles, Leverage, Influence: India’s Arms Export Foreign Policy Play

India’s expanding defence exports are becoming a tool of statecraft rather than merely a source of revenue.

Recent BrahMos missile agreements highlight how New Delhi is using military exports to strengthen long-term strategic relationships and extend its influence across key regions.

The BrahMos Aerospace agreement signed with Indonesia during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s July 2026 visit marked the third export success for the supersonic cruise missile after earlier sales to the Philippines and Vietnam. All three nations border or operate in the wider South China Sea region and face maritime disputes with China.

A BrahMos deployment in the Philippines, Vietnam or Indonesia gives these countries a credible deterrent capability while creating enduring links with India through training, maintenance, logistics and operational planning. The missile’s combat use during the India-Pakistan conflict in May 2025 has further enhanced its attractiveness in international markets.

The significance of these deals extends beyond a single weapons platform. India is steadily building a broader portfolio of defence exports that reflects a wider strategic vision and growing geopolitical ambition.

India’s defence exports reached ₹38,424 crore in 2025-26, representing growth of nearly 63 per cent in a single year. The figure stood below ₹700 crore in 2013-14. Indian defence equipment is now supplied to more than 80 countries, while the government has set a target of ₹50,000 crore in annual exports by 2028-29.

The nature of exports is also changing. Armenia has emerged as a major customer, acquiring Akash surface-to-air missile systems, Pinaka multi-barrel rocket launchers, Swathi weapon-locating radars and ATAGS artillery guns. Media estimates place these purchases at nearly ₹16,600 crore, although no official figure has been confirmed.

India is also preparing to export the Astra air-to-air missile, potentially marking the first overseas sale of that system. Alongside this, Dornier aircraft, patrol vessels and Advanced Light Helicopters have been supplied to several Indian Ocean nations.

These exports indicate a transition from selling individual items and spare parts to exporting integrated military systems. Such systems create long-term dependence through maintenance requirements, upgrades, training and operational integration.

In Southeast Asia, BrahMos exports represent India’s response to China’s expanding regional presence. Rather than establishing military bases, India is helping regional states strengthen their own deterrence capabilities, placing Indian-origin military capacity along China’s maritime periphery.

In the Caucasus, defence sales to Armenia provide India with strategic influence in a region where Turkey and Pakistan support Azerbaijan. These agreements also strengthen India’s position along routes linked to Iran and the International North-South Transport Corridor.

Across the Indian Ocean, defence cooperation with countries including Mauritius, Seychelles and the Maldives reinforces India’s role as the principal security partner for many smaller regional states, consistent with the SAGAR vision announced in 2015.

Exports also strengthen India’s domestic defence industry. Larger production runs reduce costs for India’s armed forces, support indigenous manufacturing and lessen vulnerability to external pressure from foreign suppliers.

Challenges remain. BrahMos is a joint India-Russia venture, requiring Russian approval for exports, which can affect delivery timelines and strategic flexibility. The Indonesian agreement itself required Russian clearance before proceeding.

Many customers are small or middle-income nations that often require favourable financing arrangements, phased payments or technology-transfer provisions. At the same time, Indian manufacturers face growing competition from suppliers in South Korea, Turkey and Europe, while maintaining delivery schedules and reliability will be critical.

Although India’s annual defence exports remain modest compared with those of the United States, Russia, France and China, the broader trajectory is clear.

The selection of customers reflects New Delhi’s strategic priorities: strengthening the capabilities of China’s neighbours, countering rival partnerships involving Turkey and Pakistan, and consolidating influence across the Indian Ocean.

Rather than relying on formal alliances or overseas military bases, India is increasingly using defence exports to build durable partnerships, enhance interoperability and deepen regional influence.

In this model, strategic autonomy is expressed not only through diplomacy but through supply chains, industrial capacity and long-term security relationships.

A rising power signals its arrival not merely through what it acquires, but through the partners it chooses to equip, and India is increasingly making those choices with clear strategic intent.

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China Broadens Southeast Asia Military Footprint With New Laos Air Base And Expanded Regional Reach

China has significantly expanded its overseas military network, adding a new air facility in Laos to complement its existing access to a naval installation in Cambodia and its long-standing overseas base in Djibouti. The development marks a notable extension of Beijing’s military presence across Southeast Asia.

The newly operational China-Laos Joint Support and Training Centre and the China-Laos Friendship Aviation Academy were officially inaugurated at Ban Keun Airport in Laos on 29 September 2026. The opening ceremony was attended by Lao Defence Minister Khamlieng Outhakayson and followed high-level talks between Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith and Chinese President Xi Jinping in Beijing earlier this year, during which defence cooperation featured prominently.

Located roughly 50 kilometres north of Vientiane, the Ban Keun facility occupies a site with historical significance. During the Vietnam War, it was home to Lima Site 44, part of a network of airfields developed by the United States and the CIA. Construction of the modern facility appears to have commenced in late 2025 on land previously used for agriculture.

The base now features a 2,000-metre paved runway, taxiway, aircraft apron, air traffic control tower and five hangars. While most major infrastructure has been completed, additional development work remains under way.

China and Laos describe the installation as a jointly operated training facility intended to improve pilot training and aviation capabilities within the Lao military. Beijing has emphasised that the centre complies with domestic and international law, is based on mutual consultation and is not aimed at any third country.

Despite these assurances, regional analysts believe the base carries broader strategic significance. Vietnam is expected to view the development with particular concern given its historical tensions with China and the base’s location west of Vietnamese territory. The facility extends China’s potential operational reach deeper into mainland Southeast Asia.

Laos operates one of the region’s smallest air forces, consisting of a limited fleet of Russian- and Chinese-built aircraft and helicopters. Its inventory includes MA60 and MA600 transport aircraft, Z-9 helicopters, LE500 basic trainers and K-8W jet trainers. The country’s principal air facilities are located at Vientiane-Wattay International Airport and Xiengkhouang.

Analysts suggest the scale of the new training complex exceeds the immediate needs of the Lao Air Force. Beijing is widely expected to encourage greater reliance on Chinese military aircraft, technology and training systems, potentially replacing remaining Russian equipment and creating long-term strategic dependencies.

Chinese authorities have not disclosed the number of personnel, aircraft or support assets that will be stationed at Ban Keun. However, reports indicate that PLA Air Force JL-8 trainer aircraft could operate from the base alongside Laos’ existing K-8W fleet.

Questions also remain regarding the legal framework governing Chinese military access. Although Laos is expected to retain sovereignty over operations, observers note that Beijing’s growing economic influence could provide leverage in future negotiations concerning military usage.

Chinese military commentators have highlighted Ban Keun’s location along the China-Laos Railway corridor as a key logistical advantage. The rail connection enables efficient movement of personnel and equipment from southern China while also linking the facility closely to major regional transport routes.

The base’s proximity to Vientiane offers practical advantages for pilot training, administration and governmental oversight. Its location in relatively flat terrain is also considered more suitable for aviation operations than much of mountainous Laos.

Chinese analysts have identified three principal objectives for the installation. The first is strengthening the training and modernisation of the Lao Air Force, thereby expanding Chinese influence over future procurement and operational standards.

The second is enhancing military operations and exercises in Southeast Asia. Ban Keun could provide an additional operating location for Chinese aircraft participating in regional drills, including exercises with Thailand, while offering more realistic deployment scenarios.

The third objective relates to broader geopolitical influence. Numerous major cities across mainland Southeast Asia lie within operational range of the facility, potentially increasing China’s strategic presence throughout the Indochina Peninsula.

Some defence experts argue that the base’s greatest importance lies less in its immediate military utility and more in establishing a permanent Chinese military presence in Laos while strengthening institutional ties between the two armed forces.

The Laos installation differs from China’s overseas facility in Djibouti, which primarily supports anti-piracy operations in the Gulf of Aden but also hosts Chinese naval infantry and armoured assets. The Djibouti base provides Beijing with a rapid-response capability across parts of Africa and the Middle East.

The Pentagon has previously assessed that Djibouti has contributed more to sustaining a permanent Chinese regional military presence than to the evacuation of citizens or protection of investments, despite those being among its publicly stated purposes.

Ban Keun is particularly significant because it represents the first overseas facility specifically focused on air force operations. The PLA is expected to maintain a continuous support presence while rotating personnel and aircraft through the base.

Some Chinese commentators suggest Beijing may have preferred Laos because Cambodia was reluctant to host a similar air facility. Phnom Penh has increasingly pursued a balancing strategy, maintaining security ties with China while also strengthening engagement with countries such as the United States and Japan.

China already enjoys extensive access to Cambodia’s Ream Naval Base on the Gulf of Thailand. The jointly operated support and training centre there was inaugurated in April 2025 after substantial Chinese-funded expansion, including new berths and facilities.

Although Chinese warships regularly utilise Ream, Cambodia maintains that the base remains open to friendly foreign navies. That position was reinforced when the USS Cincinnati visited the facility in January 2026, marking the first United States naval visit since its redevelopment.

Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet has repeatedly insisted that no foreign country will be granted exclusive military rights at Ream, citing constitutional restrictions on foreign military bases.

At the same time, Cambodia has revived military exercises with the United States after a decade-long pause, reflecting its broader effort to maintain strategic flexibility between competing powers.

China and Cambodia continue to deepen military cooperation through annual Golden Dragon exercises and defence equipment transfers, including the supply of Type 056 corvettes to the Royal Cambodian Navy.

Together, the facilities at Ream and Ban Keun provide China with expanded access to both maritime and air domains in Southeast Asia. They also complement Beijing’s extensive military infrastructure across the South China Sea, including installations in the Paracel and Spratly Islands.

Chinese officials maintain that the Laos training centre will help establish a comprehensive aviation training system covering pilots, maintenance personnel and other aviation specialists. The facility is also expected to support simulators, joint exercises, technical assistance and long-term capability development.

Laotian personnel currently receive training in China, Russia and Vietnam. The new institution could reduce reliance on overseas programmes by allowing more instruction to take place domestically.

Chinese media further argue that the centre could support humanitarian operations, search-and-rescue missions, border security tasks and disaster-relief activities throughout the Mekong region.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon continues to assess that China is seeking a broader overseas logistics and basing network to support long-distance military operations. Potential locations reportedly examined by Beijing include Angola, Bangladesh, Myanmar, Cuba, Equatorial Guinea, Indonesia, Kenya, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Pakistan, Papua New Guinea, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tanzania, the United Arab Emirates and Vanuatu.

Notably, Laos did not feature in previous publicly identified lists of potential Chinese military facilities, making the emergence of the Ban Keun base particularly unexpected.

Western defence assessments conclude that while China’s overseas military network remains modest compared with that of the United States, it is steadily expanding. The combination of naval access in Cambodia, an aviation foothold in Laos and established overseas facilities elsewhere demonstrates Beijing’s growing ability to project military influence beyond its borders and sustain a more persistent presence across strategically important regions.

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Indian Navy’s Global Reach In South China Sea, Atlantic Showcases Blue-Water Strength, Says Defence Minister

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has underlined the expanding global presence of the Indian Navy, stating that deployments stretching from the South China Sea to the Mediterranean and the Atlantic Ocean reflect India's growing blue-water maritime capability and ability to project power far beyond its immediate region, IANS reported.

Speaking at the second edition of the Indian Navy’s biannual Commanders' Conference 2026 at Nausena Bhawan in New Delhi, he said the Navy plays a vital role in providing strategic depth and strengthening India’s influence across key maritime theatres.

The Defence Minister called for a major enhancement of India’s maritime surveillance and monitoring architecture. While acknowledging the effectiveness of existing systems, he stressed that increasing maritime traffic, evolving threats and the growing complexity of the operational environment require more advanced analytical and response capabilities.

He noted that congestion at sea, deceptive practices and grey-zone activities have significantly complicated the maritime security landscape, making stronger monitoring mechanisms a strategic necessity.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to naval modernisation under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership, Rajnath Singh described the Indian Navy as a crucial pillar of the ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’ vision.

He said the Navy’s contribution extends well beyond safeguarding territorial waters, playing an increasingly important role in economic security, regional stability, deterrence and power projection.

Urging sustained momentum in capability development, he called on the service to continue transforming itself into a future-ready, combat-ready and internationally respected force.

Highlighting India’s growing maritime stature, he said the country has emerged as a First Responder and Preferred Security Partner in the Indian Ocean Region, with the international community recognising both India’s expanding strategic influence and its increasing responsibility in maintaining regional stability.

Rajnath Singh also praised the Navy’s performance during the West Asia crisis. He described the safe escort and transit of Indian-flagged merchant vessels, particularly LPG carriers, through the Strait of Hormuz under Operation Urja Suraksha as a notable achievement.

The operation has assumed particular importance given India’s dependence on maritime trade routes. Around 85-90 per cent of the country’s crude oil imports and nearly 50 per cent of its natural gas supplies reach India by sea, making secure sea lanes critical to economic growth, energy security and military preparedness.

Emphasising self-reliance, the Defence Minister said India’s warship-building ecosystem has matured to the point of meeting global standards. He pointed out that recently commissioned naval platforms contain more than 75 per cent indigenous content.

He added that India should not only fulfil domestic naval requirements but also emerge as an exporter of advanced warships to friendly nations, strengthening both strategic partnerships and the domestic shipbuilding industry.

The remarks come as the Navy continues to pursue ambitious force-expansion plans, with multiple indigenous warships and support vessels scheduled for induction and a long-term objective of building a fleet of more than 200 ships over the next decade.

Rajnath Singh also interacted with the Chief of Defence Staff and the Chief of the Army Staff during the conference, reflecting ongoing efforts to deepen tri-services integration and operational synergy.

The three-day conference, running from 29 September to 1 October, has brought together the Navy’s top leadership to assess operational readiness, maritime security challenges, technological induction and future capability development priorities.

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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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Indian Coast Guard Ship Shaunak Sails From Chennai To Kick-Start Historic Quad-At-Sea Observer Mission

In a prominent development for maritime diplomacy, the Indian Coast Guard ship Shaunak has officially set sail from the port of Chennai to mark the commencement of the landmark QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission.

Ministry of External Affairs spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal confirmed that India welcomed the start of this crucial maritime initiative aimed at bolstering overall operational engagement across regional waters.

The mission acts as a direct outcome of the key diplomatic decisions taken during the 11th Quad Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in New Delhi on 26 May 2026.

As the vessel departed the shores of Tamil Nadu, it embarked with six specialized sea riders representing all four member states of the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, namely India, Japan, Australia and the United States.

The operational deployment is specifically designed to significantly enhance maritime cooperation, operational coordination and tactical interoperability among the participating coast guard forces and maritime agencies.

The Indian Coast Guard highlighted that this combined maritime exercise exemplifies a collective and steadfast commitment toward maintaining a free, open, inclusive and rule-based maritime order across the vital Indo-Pacific domain.

This initiative aligns seamlessly with India's overarching vision of MAHASAGAR, an acronym standing for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions.

By driving this mission forward, the Indian Coast Guard is reinforcing its enduring dedication to multilateral professional linkages, active collective engagement and the creation of a thoroughly secure maritime framework.

The origin of this cooperative framework dates back to 2025, when the inaugural edition of the QUAD-at-Sea Ship Observer Mission was officially launched with international officers embarking on board the United States Coast Guard Cutter Stratton.

Following up on that foundation, the Quad Foreign Ministers agreed during their New Delhi conference in May 2026 that India would host the prestigious 2026 iteration of the ship observer initiative.

The vessel leading this leg of the observer mission, ICGS Shaunak, is a formidable 105-metre offshore patrol vessel displacing approximately 2,450 tons and equipped with advanced state-of-the-art navigation and communication apparatus.

Indigenously constructed by Goa Shipyard Limited, ICGS Shaunak brings modern capability to the sea, featuring sophisticated equipment including a 30 mm CRN 91 naval gun, an integrated bridge system, and advanced machinery control facilities.

The ongoing mission provides an interactive sea-riding platform for naval and coast guard personnel to observe operational techniques, practice maritime search and rescue drills, and streamline joint protocol execution.

With maritime traffic continuously expanding through strategic ocean channels, such observer missions are intended to build deep operational trust and ensure rapid combined responses to humanitarian crises, piracy, and illegal maritime activities.

The deployment of ICGS Shaunak from Chennai symbolizes another major operational milestone for the Quad nations as they collectively navigate and safeguard key maritime passageways in the region.

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