US PACOM Chief Admiral Paparo Meets Andaman and Nicobar Command Head to Strengthen Defence Cooperation Ahead of Japan Visit

US Pacific Command (PACOM) Commander Admiral Samuel Paparo met Vice Admiral Vineet McCarty, Commander-in-Chief of the Andaman and Nicobar Command, to discuss strengthening military cooperation between India and the United States. The meeting took place ahead of Paparo’s planned visit to Japan, as both countries continue to deepen their strategic engagement across the Indo-Pacific.

The US Embassy in India announced the meeting on Monday through a post on X, underscoring the growing momentum in bilateral defence relations and the shared objective of promoting regional security. The embassy highlighted the importance of continued collaboration between the two countries’ armed forces, describing the India-US Major Defence Partnership as an evolving relationship focused on a safer and more stable Indo-Pacific.

Admiral Paparo arrived in New Delhi last week for an official visit centred on advancing defence ties. During his stay, he held discussions with senior Indian defence officials on expanding military cooperation and exchanging views on important regional and international developments. Defence Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh also met the US commander in the national capital. According to the Ministry of Defence, their discussions covered opportunities to strengthen bilateral defence and strategic cooperation, along with developments affecting regional and global security.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor hosted a dinner for Admiral Paparo at Roosevelt House during the admiral’s October 5–8 visit to India. The engagement was part of broader efforts to advance the India-US Major Defence Partnership. Admiral Paparo leads US Pacific Command, one of the American military’s principal geographic commands. The command oversees approximately 400,000 military and civilian personnel operating across a region that covers nearly half the globe.

The meeting with the Andaman and Nicobar Command chief is significant given the strategic importance of the Indian Ocean and the wider Indo-Pacific. Located near key international maritime routes, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands occupy an important position in regional security and maritime awareness.

Continued engagement between Indian and American military leaders reflects the two countries’ interest in improving coordination, strengthening defence relationships and supporting stability across the region. Paparo’s visit to Japan is expected to provide another opportunity for engagement on Indo-Pacific security priorities.