United States: During Indian Prime Minister Mr. Narendra Modi’s state visit to the United States, a series of defense and technology collaborations between the two countries are expected to be announced, according to US officials. The collaborations will encompass various areas, including deepening defense and military ties, technology cooperation, and supply chain diversification. In a briefing with reporters, senior administration officials highlighted the significance and unprecedented nature of the deliverables.
India, now the world’s most populous country and on track to become the third-largest economy, holds strategic importance for the United States in the coming decades. The bilateral partnership between the two countries is described as deeper and more expansive than ever before. The officials emphasized that the collaboration aims to promote a free and open Indo-Pacific region, shaping a future that is open, prosperous, secure, stable, and resilient.
During his state visit, Prime Minister Mr. Modi met with President Mr. Joe Biden, First Lady Ms. Jill Biden, as well as influential business leaders such as Mr. Elon Musk and Mr. Ray Dalio. The Indian leader will join President Mr. Biden in a press conference, where they will address questions from journalists.
In the defense sector, three significant announcements are anticipated. The first involves a deal to jointly produce F414 jet engines in India, with the participation of General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics. This agreement will enhance India’s defense capabilities. The second announcement pertains to master ship repair agreements, which will allow US Navy ships to be serviced and repaired in Indian shipyards, resulting in cost and time savings for the US military. Lastly, the India-US Defense Acceleration Ecosystem will integrate India’s private sector defense industry with its US counterpart, facilitating collaboration and innovation.
The collaboration between the United States and India underscores the increasing strategic partnership between the two nations. The announcements reflect their shared commitment to strengthening defense capabilities, advancing technological cooperation, and fostering a secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.