India and Myanmar Explore New Measures to Deepen Defence Cooperation

India and Myanmar have reviewed the progress of defence cooperation initiatives agreed during their previous Defence Cooperation Meeting and discussed additional measures to strengthen their military partnership. The discussions took place during the third India-Myanmar Defence Cooperation Meeting held in Guwahati on October 7, 2026. The meeting was jointly chaired by Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh and Myanmar’s Chief of Armed Forces Training, Lt Gen Pyae Sone Linn. Both sides assessed the implementation of various defence initiatives agreed during the previous meeting, which was held in Yangon in 2025.

The two countries also discussed new areas of cooperation, with particular attention to military training, capacity building and measures aimed at improving mutual security. Myanmar expressed its appreciation for India’s humanitarian assistance following the devastating earthquake in the country, particularly through Operation Brahma, under which India acted as a first responder and provided support to its close neighbour.

The latest discussions come amid continued efforts by India and Myanmar to expand defence and maritime cooperation. In May 2026, former Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Dinesh K. Tripathi visited Myanmar and held talks with Commander-in-Chief of the Myanmar Navy Admiral Htein Win in Naypyitaw. During their meeting, the two naval chiefs discussed ways to deepen Navy-to-Navy engagement, including maritime cooperation, capacity building, training exchanges and the deployment of Mobile Training Teams. Hydrography and greater interoperability between the two navies were also among the issues discussed.

The Indian Navy said the engagement was aimed at strengthening maritime security in the Bay of Bengal and promoting closer cooperation between the two countries under the MAHASAGAR vision. The discussions also covered the need for coordinated approaches to emerging asymmetric threats at sea. During his Myanmar visit, Admiral Tripathi also met Defence Minister General Htun Aung. Their discussions covered the broader scope of bilateral relations, key areas for future cooperation and the role of India-Myanmar defence ties in supporting regional stability and security.

Tripathi also held talks with senior Myanmar Navy officials, including Central Naval Command chief Rear Admiral Aung Aung Naing and Training Command chief Rear Admiral Khun Aung Kyaw. The discussions focused on strengthening naval cooperation, expanding operational engagement and increasing opportunities for training and professional exchanges.

The Admiral 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. Particular attention was given to the effectiveness of Mobile Training Teams and India’s efforts to support capacity building within the Myanmar Navy.

During the visit, Tripathi formally handed over several projects developed with assistance from the Government of India. These included a Containerised Small Arms Simulator and a Rigid Inflatable Boat, intended to enhance training capabilities and contribute to maritime security in the Bay of Bengal. The latest India-Myanmar Defence Cooperation Meeting reflects the continued focus on strengthening defence ties through training, capacity building, maritime cooperation and greater operational coordination, while also reinforcing the broader security partnership between the two neighbouring countries.