KIRAN DEEP
The North News
New Delhi, February 14
India and the United States have announced a significant defence agreement, reinforcing their strategic partnership with new arms procurements and co-production initiatives. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump unveiled plans to co-develop Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and Stryker infantry combat vehicles in India, aiming to rapidly enhance India’s military capabilities. The two nations will also sign a new ten-year framework for defense cooperation, cementing their collaboration in technology sharing, arms production, and interoperability. India, already a major defence partner with Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1) status, will see a streamlining of US arms transfer regulations, including revisions to the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). The agreement will facilitate faster technology exchanges and bolster India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
US President Trump hosted Prime Minister Modi for an official working visit in Washington on 13 February. As leaders of two vibrant democracies that uphold freedom, the rule of law, human rights, and pluralism, they reaffirmed the strength of the US-India Comprehensive Global Strategic Partnership. Their discussions focused on mutual trust, shared interests, and deepening engagement between their citizens.
Key elements of the partnership include an increased presence of US-origin equipment in India’s military, such as C-130J Super Hercules, P-8I Poseidon aircraft, MH-60R Seahawks, and MQ-9B drones. Additionally, India is set to acquire six more P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to enhance surveillance in the Indian Ocean region.
In a move towards futuristic warfare, the leaders announced the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA), a joint initiative to develop AI-driven defense solutions. Collaborations between Anduril Industries and Mahindra Group will focus on cutting-edge maritime security systems, while L3 Harris and Bharat Electronics Ltd (BEL) will co-develop advanced naval sonar technology.
The upcoming Tiger Triumph tri-service exercise will be expanded, reflecting the growing synergy between the Indian and US armed forces. Further agreements on intelligence-sharing, logistics support, and force mobility are expected to improve joint operations in the Indo-Pacific.
This agreement signals a deepening of defence ties between India and the US, reinforcing their shared vision for regional security and stability.
