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U.S ,India 

The United States Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, emphasized the importance of bolstering India's military capabilities to maintain stability in the broader Indo-Pacific region during a Congressional hearing on the Department of Defense's annual budget. Austin highlighted the growing partnership between the two nations under the Major Defense Partnership, aiming to enhance maritime security in the Indian Ocean.

Austin noted the acceleration of joint exercises and operational activities between the US and Indian militaries to strengthen their collaboration. He underscored the commitment to support the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue among Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.

Similarly, Admiral John C Aquilino, Commander of the US Indo-Pacific Command, stressed the significance of a robust US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership for a free and open Indo-Pacific amidst China's assertive actions in the region. Aquilino highlighted initiatives like INDUS-X and the roadmap for US-India Defense Industrial Cooperation, aiming to boost bilateral defense industrial collaboration.

He mentioned specific examples such as the proposed deal between GE Aerospace and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited for domestic production of F-414 jet engines in India. Aquilino also highlighted efforts to enhance interoperability in the air and land domains through exercises like AERO INDIA, COPE INDIA, and TIGER TRIUMPH.

Furthermore, Aquilino outlined plans to deepen cooperation under the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) to facilitate more regular engagements in the Indian Ocean region. He mentioned the signing of new Master Ship Repair Agreements and the maintenance of US Navy vessels in Indian shipyards.

Regarding the Indo-China border standoff, Aquilino pointed out China's passage of a land border law asserting sovereignty over disputed territories and increased military involvement. He noted the ongoing standoff between Indian and Chinese troops in eastern Ladakh since May 2020 and its impact on bilateral relations.

In summary, the testimonies of Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Admiral John C Aquilino underscore the growing partnership between the United States and India to promote stability in the Indo-Pacific region and address challenges posed by China's assertive behavior.