SRINAGAR, India – Recently, there was a sense of hope among military experts in India as Prime Minister Narendra Modi and U.S. President Donald Trump discussed boosting defense system sales, including F-35 fighter jets. This move is aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership between the U.S. and India.
Lt. Gen. Vinod Bhatia, who served as India’s director-general for military operations from 2012 to 2014, shared his views. “The defense sector is huge, and India is a key buyer globally. If we keep purchasing, it will please Trump, and importantly, it will enhance our defense capabilities,” Bhatia stated.
The leaders announced plans for a new 10-year framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership, highlighting their commitment to increase military cooperation across various sectors including air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace. They also discussed improving logistical support and intelligence sharing for military operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
Indian defense analysts have been aiming for a variety of procurement sources. However, experts warn that it will take time to lessen India’s reliance on Russian military equipment, which still comprises around 60% of its arsenal.
Raja Mohan from the Institute of South Asian Studies noted that India is looking for more than just purchasing weapons. “What we need is co-production and research and development carried out within India. This is a long-term goal,” he explained.
Addressing India’s ongoing military needs, Rahul Bedi, an independent defense analyst, pointed out, “Acquiring F-35 jets won’t meet our immediate requirement for over 100 aircraft. They won’t be available right away — it’s a multi-year process.”
As India faces greater challenges from China, it has been diversifying its defense procurement from countries like the U.S., Israel, and France, while striving for self-reliance. Yet, the significant Russian dependence for parts and support persists. Indian military leaders emphasize the need for advanced systems to tackle threats from both China and Pakistan.
“We face challenges from both nations, especially with China’s increasing capabilities,” said Lt. Gen. D.S. Hooda, who led the Indian military’s Northern Command. The rising influence of China has driven India closer to the U.S. and the Quad alliance, which includes Japan and Australia.
This strategic partnership addresses China’s actions in the region, which have been viewed as aggressive and destabilizing. As China’s navy grows in the Indian Ocean and its ties with neighboring countries strengthen, India remains concerned about its defense capabilities.
Historically, India has depended heavily on Soviet-era technology. In the early 1990s, a significant portion of its military inventory came from Russia. However, in recent years, Indian defense strategies have expanded to include major purchases from the U.S., such as maritime patrol aircraft, transport planes, and drones.
Experts believe that enhanced defense sales could help reduce the trade deficit between India and the U.S. “It’s beneficial for both sides—America gains business, and we gain access to modern weaponry,” Hooda commented. This partnership not only aims to strengthen military capabilities but also fosters economic ties between the two nations.
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Military and defense, Politics, Washington news, General news, World news, Article, 118817029
