Enhancing India-US Defence Collaboration: A Meeting of Strategic Minds
Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and US Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard convened to strengthen defence collaboration. The discussions focused on interoperability, defence supply chain integration, and strategic security, reflecting both nations’ commitment to enhancing military ties. Recent agreements, including the procurement of MQ-9B drones and the production of F414 engines, underline the collaborative efforts underway.
On Monday, Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Tulsi Gabbard, the US Director of National Intelligence, engaged in discussions aimed at fortifying bilateral relations in defence sectors. The focus was on enhancing interoperability and integrating defence industrial supply chains to better address mutual strategic interests. These negotiations occurred as both nations seek to broaden collaboration across various operational domains, including land, air, maritime, and space.
During their meeting in New Delhi, both leaders highlighted the importance of strategic security as a core component of their comprehensive global partnership. They reviewed recent advancements in military exercises and information-sharing cooperation, particularly emphasizing the maritime sector. Singh expressed his satisfaction, stating, “Happy to have met the US Director of National Intelligence Ms @TulsiGabbard in New Delhi. We discussed a wide range of issues which include defence and information sharing.”
The discussions followed previous talks in February between Singh and US official Pete Hegseth, where they assessed ongoing defence collaborations and explored avenues to strengthen their bilateral engagement. Progress has already been made under the US-India Defence Industrial Cooperation Roadmap, focusing on co-production and innovative technologies for jet engines and munitions, which was established in 2023.
India’s recent agreement to procure 31 MQ-9B drones, worth $3.5 billion, underlines its commitment to enhancing military capabilities, particularly with respect to China. This extensive deal, assessed over eight years and involving multiple US administrations, includes 15 drones for the Indian navy and eight each for the army and air force.
Moreover, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) is in negotiations with General Electric Aerospace concerning the joint production of F414 engines for India’s future light combat aircraft. This collaboration will bridge significant technology gaps and foster local development of advanced aviation systems while potentially enabling future exports.
Singh’s discussions with Gabbard occurred after Trump’s announcement about providing India with F-35 stealth fighters. However, the Indian Air Chief Marshal AP Singh later clarified that no formal offer for the F-35s had been made, emphasizing the complexity involved in acquiring such advanced military aircraft.
The meeting between Rajnath Singh and Tulsi Gabbard represents a significant step forward in strengthening India-US defence relations. Both parties are committed to enhancing military interoperability and integrating defence production, showcasing strides in mutual strategic security. With ongoing negotiations on vital technologies and agreements, the countries appear poised to advance their defense partnership significantly.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
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