Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks met with Australian Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery Pat Conroy at the Pentagon. The meeting aimed to strengthen the alliance between the United States and Australia.

The officials discussed developments since their last meeting in April 2024, focusing on defense industrial cooperation. They reviewed co-production and co-development efforts under Australia's Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise.

The advancement of the AUKUS partnership, which includes the United Kingdom, was also a topic of discussion. Both leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening ties between the United States and Australia. They agreed to continue working with regional allies to support a free and open Indo-Pacific.

Department of Defense Spokesman Eric Pahon provided this information following the meeting.