Trump Signs Defence Bill Paving Way for Stronger US-India Relations

US President Donald Trump has signed the National Defence Authorisation Act, emphasizing enhanced US-India engagement through the Quad, amid rising challenges from China. The Act bolsters US defence alliances in the Indo-Pacific, promotes defence cooperation, and assesses nuclear liability rules with India.

On Thursday, President Donald Trump signed the National Defence Authorisation Act for Fiscal Year 2026, reinforcing US commitments to its Indo-Pacific allies, particularly India, by fostering defence partnerships and engagements through the Quad.

The Act outlines initiatives aimed at strengthening defence alliances in the region to counter China's aggressive posture. It promotes expanded US-India collaboration, through military exercises, defence trade, and maritime security efforts.

Furthermore, the Act calls for a joint assessment on nuclear liability rules between the US and India, encouraging alignment with international norms to improve bilateral and multilateral engagements on nuclear energy cooperation.

(With inputs from agencies.)