India and the US are set to begin discussions on a new 10-year defence framework that will run from 2025 to 2035, with finalization expected later this year.
The “US-India Major Defence Partnership in the 21st Century” aims to strengthen defence ties and streamline procurement between the two nations, according to a joint statement following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, DC.
Once signed, the agreement will facilitate easier purchase of defence goods and services between the two countries, enhancing efficiency in procurement.
Speaking to reporters after the meeting, India’s Foreign Secretary said, “Defence remains a key area of cooperation in the strategic partnership. The leaders announced plans to finalize a new 10-year framework for the US-India major defence partnership in the 21st century, which is expected to be concluded later this year.”
PM Modi and President Trump reaffirmed their commitment to a strong and dynamic defence partnership, agreeing to review arms transfer regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR). This review is expected to facilitate smoother defence trade, technology sharing, and maintenance of US-provided defence systems in India. India’s designation as a Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA-1) partner and its role in the Quad further strengthen its position in defence cooperation with the US.
Additionally, both countries agreed to initiate negotiations for a ‘Reciprocal Defence Procurement’ (RDP) agreement, which would align procurement systems and allow reciprocal supply of defence goods and services.
The leaders also committed to accelerating defence technology cooperation in space, air defence, missile systems, maritime security, and undersea technologies. The US announced a review of its policy on releasing fifth-generation fighter jets and undersea systems to India.
The US plans to expand defence sales and co-production with India, including initiatives for “Javelin” anti-tank guided missiles and “Stryker” infantry combat vehicles. Both nations also agreed to finalize the procurement of six additional P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft to enhance India’s maritime surveillance in the Indian Ocean Region.
The joint statement highlighted the integration of US-origin defence equipment into India’s inventory, including C-130J Super Hercules, C-17 Globemaster III, P-8I Poseidon aircraft, CH-47F Chinooks, MH-60R Seahawks, AH-64E Apaches, Harpoon anti-ship missiles, M777 howitzers, and MQ-9Bs. The leaders emphasized strengthening interoperability and defence industrial cooperation.
These agreements fall under the “US-India COMPACT for the 21st Century,” an initiative launched by PM Modi and President Trump to drive advancements in military cooperation, trade, and technology.
-ANI
