U.S.-India Defence Cooperation Under Trump 2.0
Context
Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s recent visit to the U.S. has reinforced bilateral defence ties that include agreements on co-production of advanced weaponry, expansion of maritime security, and regulatory reforms in arms transfers. The article discusses the challenges and long-term strategic implications for India.
Relevance:
GS-02 (International Relations)
Dimensions of the Article:
- New Changes Under Trump 2.0
- Challenges Ahead
- Implications for India
- Way Forward
New Changes Under Trump 2.0
- Co-production of Defence Systems: India has decided to procure and produce Javelin’ Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and ‘Stryker’ Infantry Combat Vehicles to strengthen its domestic defence industry.
- Expansion of Naval Capabilities: The aim to purchase additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft will enhance India’s Maritime Domain Awareness (MDA).
- Strengthening Unmanned & Autonomous Systems: Initiatives such as the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) will foster joint collaboration in drone warfare and surveillance technology.
- ASIA: It aims to co-develop and co-produce maritime drones and counter-drone systems that focus on AI.
- Regulatory Reforms & Defence Trade: Both countries will engage in active negotiation of a Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) agreement to improve supply chains and also review arms transfer policies.
Challenges Ahead
- Uncertainty in Fighter Jet Acquisitions: It affects the functioning of the Indian Air Force’s plans. The deal lacks clarity on the urgent supply of GE F-404 & F-414 engines for the Tejas fighter jets.
- Complexity of Integrating F-35 Fighters: The U.S. has offered India the F-35 Lightning II, but operational challenges include high infrastructure costs, intrusive U.S. inspections, and limited technology transfer.
- Revival of the MMRCA Deal: India still needs 114 multirole fighter jets. The earlier Rafale deal (2011-12) stalled due to technology transfer issues, raising concerns about a similar fate for future American jets.
- Strategic Dependence on the U.S.: India must assess potential American restrictions on using U.S. technology that could impact operational flexibility in conflicts involving Pakistan or China.
Implications for India
- Boost to Indigenous Defence Manufacturing: Co-production agreements will strengthen India’s Make in India initiative and integrate it into global defence supply chains.
- Enhanced Maritime Security: The acquisition of P-8I aircraft will improve India’s surveillance and anti-submarine warfare capabilities in the Indo-Pacific.
- Challenges in Fighter Jet Fleet Modernization: Delays in procuring advanced aircraft could reduce IAF’s operational strength to below 30 fighter squadrons, affecting national security preparedness.
- Geopolitical leverage vs. dependency risks: While deepening U.S. ties counters China’s influence, over-reliance on American defence technology may limit India’s strategic autonomy.
Way Forward
- Accelerate the Tejas Fighter Jet Program: India should prioritise boosting its indigenous fighter jet production to reduce dependence on foreign suppliers.
- Diversify Defence Procurement: Instead of fully relying on the U.S., India should explore other partnerships (e.g., with France, Russia) to maintain strategic flexibility.
- Negotiate for Technology Transfer & Local Production: Any major defence deal, including the F-35, should prioritize Technology Transfer (ToT) and local assembly to strengthen India’s defence sector.
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