India-US Forge a New Era in Defense Partnership

India and the US have announced a strategic 10-year defense partnership aimed at co-producing key military equipment, including potential F-35 fighter jets. This initiative seeks to boost military logistics and intelligence sharing in response to China's regional influence. The partnership emphasizes technological cooperation and procurement system alignment.

India and the United States have launched a landmark 10-year defense partnership, setting the stage for an unprecedented level of military cooperation between the two nations. This ambitious plan includes co-production of crucial weapons systems and platforms, with President Trump revealing the potential sale of F-35 stealth fighter jets to India.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Trump met at the White House, where they committed to enhancing military logistics and intelligence sharing in the Indo-Pacific region. The two leaders also confirmed India's acquisition of six additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft from the US. New agreements for the joint production of 'Javelin' missiles and 'Stryker' combat vehicles were also unveiled.

This defense partnership comes at a time when China is increasing its military presence along the Line of Actual Control and in the Indian Ocean. Modi and Trump have called for new negotiations and agreements to align procurement systems and facilitate the exchange of defense goods. The partnership is set to cover areas such as air defense, maritime and undersea technologies, and more, heralding a new era of defense collaboration.

(With inputs from agencies.)