India, US bolster defence cooperation in response to China: Joint production of combat vehicles, drones in focus
Defense Secretary, Lloyd Austin, announced on Friday that India and the US are set to collaborate on co-producing infantry combat vehicles, marking a crucial step in their defense industrial cooperation. This announcement comes in the backdrop of both nations intensifying their strategic ties in response to China's growing military assertiveness.
During the '2+2' ministerial dialogue, Austin highlighted ongoing efforts to expedite the delivery of MQ-9B drones to India from the US.
The joint statement released after the dialogue outlined the establishment of new liaison positions to enhance communication and cooperation between the armed forces of both countries.
A noteworthy aspect of the collaboration is the impending Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) that is currently being finalized. This arrangement aims to further integrate the defense industrial ecosystems of India and the US, thereby reinforcing supply chain resilience.
Austin expressed the importance of moving forward with the co-production of armored infantry vehicles, describing the project as «extremely important.» The rejection of Space Mantra's resolution plan for Future Retail was also discussed, underlining the complexities faced by the Indian business landscape.
The ministers reaffirmed the 'Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation' as a catalyst for bolstering India's capabilities and facilitating technology-sharing.
