NEW DELHI, Feb 15: Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, highlighted the growing “coercion and aggression” in the Indo-Pacific, indirectly referencing China, while praising India for restraint during Operation Sindoor.
Speaking in New Delhi, he emphasized the strong convergence of interests between the US and India, noting that the defence partnership is on a “steeply upward trajectory” and focused on peace through strength and deterrence.
Paparo underscored the importance of maritime security cooperation, including undersea domain awareness, and commended India as a major contributor to Indian Ocean security.
He stressed the need for constant vigilance and readiness in light of evolving regional threats, including Pakistan’s use of Chinese military hardware.
On lessons from Operation Sindoor, he noted the Indian military’s commitment to learning and highlighted the complexity of long-range weapons and kill chains.
Paparo concluded that the US-India partnership demonstrates unity of purpose and a shared commitment to sovereignty, freedom of navigation, and regional stability.
India, France to hold defence talks on Feb 17
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will meet French counterpart Catherine Vautrin in Bengaluru on February 17 for the sixth India-France Annual Defence Dialogue.
Key outcomes include renewing a 10-year defence pact, signing a Hammer missile joint venture MoU, and announcing reciprocal officer deployments.
The ministers will also witness the H125 helicopter assembly inauguration, strengthening military and industrial cooperation. (PTI)
