New Delhi:
In a significant move to bolster India’s defence and technological capabilities, National Security Advisor Ajit Doval is set to lead crucial discussions in Washington, focusing on the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. Accompanied by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Doval’s visit aims to strengthen defence ties between India and the US, with a strong emphasis on acquiring advanced technologies and promoting domestic manufacturing.
During the NSA-level talks, Doval will meet his US counterpart, Jake Sullivan, to delve into the intricacies of defence cooperation and technology transfer. The primary objective is to reinforce India’s ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives, which are pivotal to reducing the country’s reliance on foreign imports and enhancing its indigenous defence manufacturing capabilities.
A key area of discussion will be the acquisition of advanced fighter-jet engines from the US, crucial for India’s fifth-generation fighter jets. The US has also offered India the MQ-9B Predator UAVs, which could be manufactured in India with the transfer of technology, further boosting India’s drone capabilities.
The Javelin anti-tank missile deal, valued at approximately $75 million and including 410 missiles and 21 launch units, will be a significant point of negotiation. This deal is expected to enhance India’s anti-tank capabilities, providing a substantial boost to its armoured forces. Additionally, India is considering the purchase of around 300 Stryker armoured vehicles from the US, estimated to cost around $1 billion, which would significantly enhance the Indian Army’s mobility and firepower.
Other defence equipment on the agenda includes the procurement of additional P-8I Poseidon aircraft, long-range maritime reconnaissance and anti-submarine warfare planes, and other defence technologies such as fighter jets and drones. The US has already agreed to sell 31 MQ-9B Reaper drones to India at an estimated cost of $4 billion, marking a substantial step in their defence cooperation.
In a major breakthrough, India and General Electric (GE) have signed a deal where GE will transfer 80% of its engine technology to Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL) for the production of F414 engines in India. This agreement will enable the local manufacture of over 150 engines, powering India’s indigenous Tejas Mk II fighter jets and demonstrating the country’s growth in the global aerospace sector.
The close relationship between PM Modi and US President Donald Trump is expected to play a crucial role in these bilateral talks. Their rapport, built over several years, could facilitate smoother negotiations and more favorable outcomes for India. This visit is particularly significant as it aligns with the US strategy to strengthen ties with India as a natural partner against the rising influence of China.
