A historic meeting was held at the White House between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Donald Trump. This crucial meeting resulted in multiple agreements, including the sale of F-35 fighter jets to India and a commitment to bolster defense cooperation between the nations.
During a joint press conference following the meeting, PM Modi stated, 'As strategic and reliable partners, the United States plays a significant role in enhancing India's defense readiness. We are actively moving towards joint development, joint production, and technology transfers. New technologies and equipment will amplify our capabilities.'
10-Year Defense Agreement
In a joint press conference post-meeting, the spotlight was on the proposed 10-year framework for major defense partnership between the US and India. The agreement aims to strengthen bilateral defense relations amidst emerging security challenges, reinforcing both nations' commitment to close cooperation. Here's what India achieved from this pivotal meeting between PM Modi and President Trump.
Both parties agreed on the growing integration of US defense systems into India's armed forces, including the following aircraft:
1.
C-130J Super Hercules
2.
C-17 Globemaster-III
3.
P-8I Poseidon
4.
CH-47F Chinook
5.
MH-60R Seahawk
6.
AH-64E Apache
To further boost India's strike and surveillance capabilities, the US will expand the sale of Harpoon anti-ship missiles, M777 howitzers, and MQ-9B drones.
Announcements were made regarding new purchase and co-production agreements. India is set to acquire Javelin anti-tank guided missiles, Stryker infantry combat vehicles, and 6 additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft to enhance surveillance in the Indian Ocean.
Source: aajtak
Significant Achievements for India
During the meeting, President Trump announced plans to increase military sales to India by billions of dollars starting this year. Recognizing India as a major defense partner and STA-1 authorization holder, both nations agreed to review regulations surrounding arms transfers, including International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). This move aims to simplify defense trade, technology transfer, and maintenance of military equipment provided by the US.
There is anticipation for accelerated technology transfer for the GE-F414 jet engines, which General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited are jointly set to produce under a historic deal announced last year.
Resolving Jet Engine Delays
India has faced delays in acquiring jet engines for its Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Mk1A and Mk2 due to global supply chain disruptions. Finalizing this deal is expected to expedite the LCA Mk2 program, aimed at replacing India's aging Mirage-2000, Jaguar, and MiG-29 fighters.
Negotiations for Agreements
The two countries will initiate talks for a reciprocal defense procurement (RDP) agreement to align procurement systems and facilitate the exchange of defense goods and services.
