India, Myanmar Step Up Defence Cooperation, Focus on Training and Maritime Security

India and Myanmar have reviewed progress on their bilateral defence cooperation initiatives and discussed new measures to further strengthen ties, with a focus on training, capacity building and regional security.

The discussions took place during the third India-Myanmar Defence Cooperation Meeting held in Guwahati on October 7. The meeting was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Myanmar's Chief of Armed Forces Training, Lt Gen Pyae Sone Linn.

The two sides reviewed the progress of defence initiatives agreed during the previous meeting held in Yangon in 2025. They also exchanged views on new areas of cooperation aimed at strengthening existing defence ties and enhancing mutual security.

Myanmar's delegation expressed appreciation for India's humanitarian assistance following the devastating earthquake in the country. India had provided relief and assistance as a first responder and close neighbour under Operation Brahma.

The latest meeting builds on a series of high-level military engagements between the two countries. In May, then Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi visited Myanmar and held talks with Myanmar Navy Commander-in-Chief Admiral Htein Win in Naypyitaw.

During the naval discussions, both sides explored ways to expand maritime engagement, including training exchanges, capacity building, Mobile Training Teams, hydrography and greater interoperability between the two navies.

The talks also covered maritime security in the Bay of Bengal and the need for closer cooperation to address emerging asymmetric threats at sea.

During his Myanmar visit, Admiral Tripathi also met Defence Minister General Htun Aung to review the broader bilateral relationship and identify areas for further cooperation. The discussions highlighted the strategic importance of India-Myanmar defence engagement in contributing to regional stability and security.

The Indian Navy chief also held meetings with Myanmar Navy Central Naval Command chief Rear Admiral Aung Aung Naing and Training Command chief Rear Admiral Khun Aung Kyaw. The discussions focused on strengthening navy-to-navy cooperation, expanding operational engagements and enhancing training collaboration.

As part of the visit, Admiral Tripathi visited Myanmar's Naval Training Command, where he was briefed on the country's naval training infrastructure and ongoing cooperation between the two navies.

He also formally handed over projects executed with Indian government assistance, including a Containerised Small Arms Simulator and a Rigid Inflatable Boat. The projects are aimed at strengthening training capabilities and maritime security in the Bay of Bengal.

The latest India-Myanmar defence meeting reflects the two countries' efforts to maintain regular military engagement and deepen practical cooperation. For India, closer defence ties with Myanmar also carry strategic significance given the two countries' shared land border and their common interests in maintaining security and stability in the Bay of Bengal and India's wider northeastern region.