Industrial Defence Collab
Honolulu
Senior military leaders from India and the United States gathered in Hawaii for the 22nd India–US Military Cooperation Group (MCG) meeting, focusing on building stronger defence ties and boosting coordination between the two nations’ armed forces.
The meeting, co-chaired by Air Marshal Ashutosh Dixit, India’s Chief of Integrated Defence Staff, and Lt. Gen. Joshua M. Rudd, Deputy Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, marked another milestone in deepening bilateral military cooperation. Both sides discussed improving interoperability, conducting more joint exercises, and ensuring a secure and open Indo-Pacific region.
The MCG, established as a key dialogue platform, continues to play a major role in shaping the India–US defence partnership. Discussions covered areas such as capacity building, industrial collaboration, training exchanges, and preparedness for both traditional and modern threats. Officials reaffirmed their shared goal of maintaining regional stability and enhancing joint operational capabilities.
The 21st MCG meeting was held in New Delhi last year, where both sides pledged to expand military cooperation. Since then, several exercises—including the 21st edition of Yudh Abhyas held in Alaska—have showcased growing trust and coordination.
The Indian Army’s Madras Regiment troops trained alongside American soldiers from the 11th Airborne Division, reflecting the steady growth of joint efforts since Yudh Abhyas began in 2002.
India now conducts more military drills with the US than with any other country. Exercises like Malabar, COPE India, and Tiger Triumph underline the shared commitment of the world’s two largest democracies to peace and security in the Indo-Pacific region.