India and Myanmar reviewed existing defence initiatives and discussed new measures focused on training, capacity building and mutual security….reports Asian Lite News Desk
India and Myanmar have reviewed progress on bilateral defence initiatives and discussed new measures to deepen cooperation, with a focus on training, capacity building and mutual security.
The discussions took place during the third India-Myanmar Defence Cooperation Meeting 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 progress on defence cooperation initiatives agreed during the previous meeting held in Yangon in 2025, according to the Ministry of Defence.
“Both sides exchanged views on new initiatives to further strengthen the ongoing bilateral defence cooperation with special emphasis on training and capacity building as well as enhancing mutual security,” the ministry said.
Myanmar’s delegation also expressed appreciation for India’s humanitarian assistance following the devastating earthquake in Myanmar. India had provided relief and assistance under ‘Operation Brahma’ as a first responder and close neighbour.
The latest discussions come amid continued efforts by the two countries to expand defence and security engagement, including cooperation between their armed forces and navies.
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 Nay Pyi Taw.
The discussions focused on strengthening navy-to-navy ties and expanding maritime cooperation, including maritime engagements, capacity building, training exchanges, Mobile Training Teams, hydrography and interoperability.
The two sides also discussed maritime security and the need for collaborative approaches to emerging asymmetric threats at sea.
During the visit, Tripathi also met Myanmar Defence Minister General Htun Aung. The discussions covered the broader bilateral relationship and identified areas for further cooperation, with both sides highlighting the role of defence engagement in regional stability and security.
Tripathi also met Myanmar Navy’s Central Naval Command chief Rear Admiral Aung Aung Naing and Training Command chief Rear Admiral Khun Aung Kyaw. Talks focused on strengthening navy-to-navy cooperation, increasing operational engagement and expanding training opportunities.
He also visited Myanmar’s Naval Training Command, where he was briefed on the country’s naval training infrastructure and ongoing cooperation between the two navies.
During the visit, Tripathi formally handed over projects implemented with Indian government assistance, including a Containerised Small Arms Simulator and a Rigid Inflatable Boat.
The projects were intended to support training and maritime security capabilities in the Bay of Bengal region under India’s MAHASAGAR vision.
The latest Defence Cooperation Meeting underlined the continued focus on capacity building and professional exchanges between India and Myanmar, while identifying new avenues for defence cooperation and mutual security.
Both sides are expected to continue engagement through existing bilateral mechanisms and explore further opportunities to strengthen defence ties.
