India and Vietnam have taken significant steps to enhance their strategic and defence partnership, culminating in the signing of two crucial agreements during the 15th India–Vietnam Defence Policy Dialogue held in Hanoi on November 10, 2025.
The key discussions of the high-level meeting were co-chaired by Indian Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Vietnam’s Deputy Minister of National Defence, Senior Lieutenant General Hoang Xuan Chien. This dialogue emphasized the increasing alignment between the two nations on several vital issues, including regional security, maritime safety, and defence industrial cooperation.
During the talks, Singh met with Vietnam’s Minister of National Defence, General Phan Van Giang, to extend greetings from Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and reiterated India’s dedication to enhancing bilateral defence relations.
One significant outcome of the dialogue was the signing of a Memorandum of Agreement on Mutual Submarine Search and Rescue Support and Cooperation. This agreement is designed to improve interoperability between the Indian Navy and the Vietnam People’s Navy, thereby enhancing maritime search and rescue operations and promoting joint underwater capabilities. It is expected to make meaningful contributions towards safe navigation and stability in the strategically vital Indo-Pacific region.
Additionally, both countries endorsed a Letter of Intent focusing on Defence Industry Cooperation, which aims to foster deeper collaboration in defence manufacturing, technology transfer, research, and joint production. This initiative aligns seamlessly with India’s Make in India vision while supporting Vietnam’s efforts to modernize its military infrastructure.
The delegations also took the opportunity to review progress in areas covered by existing frameworks, including training exchanges, naval communications, capacity building, and joint maritime exercises in both the South China Sea and the Indian Ocean. Discussions also included plans for future cooperation through high-level visits, staff talks, and the introduction of new joint training programs.
This meeting underscored that defence remains a foundational pillar of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership established between India and Vietnam in 2016. Both sides underscored the importance of maintaining a free, open, and rules-based maritime order in the face of evolving geopolitical challenges in the Asia-Pacific region.
The 15th Defence Policy Dialogue is a testament to the strategic trust and shared vision between India and Vietnam, aimed at ensuring regional peace and stability, while fostering self-reliance. This milestone further cements their enduring and multifaceted partnership.
