In preparation for Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington, India and the United States engaged in comprehensive discussions on Wednesday, primarily centred around operationalizing their “Major Defence Partnership” and collaborating on the co-development of military platforms.
The 17th meeting of the India-US Defence Policy Group (DPG) took place in Washington and emphasised the enhancement of defence industrial cooperation, the sharing of critical technology, and the establishment of joint long-term research initiatives. These discussions aimed to strengthen the strategic partnership between the two nations in the field of defence.
During the 17th meeting of the India-US Defence Policy Group (DPG) held in Washington, discussions were held regarding the implementation of the ‘Major Defence Partnership’ and strategies to enhance supply chain security.
The defence ministry stated that both sides assessed the advancements made in fostering defence industrial cooperation and operationalizing the major defence partnership between India and the US.
In June 2016, the US designated India as a “Major Defence Partner,” opening avenues for the exchange of crucial military equipment and technology. This designation has facilitated deeper collaboration between the two nations in the defence sector.
The 17th meeting of the India-US Defence Policy Group (DPG) was co-chaired by Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane and US Under Secretary of Defence for Policy Colin Kahl.
According to a statement by the ministry, the discussions were described as “cordial and productive.” Key areas addressed during the meeting included military-to-military cooperation, the implementation of foundational defence agreements, joint exercises, and ongoing as well as future cooperative activities in the Indian Ocean Region.
The talks focused on various important aspects of the bilateral defence relationship between India and the US, highlighting the significance of cooperation and coordination in the maritime domain and beyond.
Considerable attention was directed towards enhancing defence industrial cooperation during the meeting, as mentioned by the ministry. This included exploring avenues for technology partnerships, long-term research and development initiatives, and bolstering supply chain security.
Additionally, discussions revolved around promoting co-development and co-production in India, with a particular focus on identifying potential areas and projects where Indian and US defence companies can collaborate.
The statement also highlighted the agreement reached between the two sides to encourage participation from both the private sector and government stakeholders in leveraging innovation ecosystems and supporting defence start-ups. This collaboration aims to foster an environment conducive to innovation and technological advancements in the defence sector.
The Defence Policy Group (DPG) serves as the highest official-level platform for engagement between India’s Ministry of Defence and the US Department of Defense. It conducts comprehensive assessments and provides guidance on all aspects of bilateral defence cooperation, with a particular focus on policy matters.
In recent years, the defence ties between India and the US have witnessed significant progress. The two countries have signed crucial defence and security agreements, such as the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) in 2016. LEMOA permits their respective militaries to utilise each other’s bases for purposes like repair and replenishment of supplies.
Furthermore, in 2018, both nations signed the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA). This agreement facilitates interoperability between the armed forces of India and the US and enables the transfer of advanced technology from the US to India.
These agreements highlight the deepening cooperation and growing strategic partnership between India and the US in the field of defence.
The BECA (Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement) agreement was finalised between India and the US in October 2020, aiming to enhance their bilateral defence cooperation.
Under the provisions of the agreement, there is a provision for sharing advanced military technology, logistics support, and geospatial maps between the two nations. The agreement strengthens the information-sharing capabilities and cooperation in the field of defence between India and the US.
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