Will India-US Defense Ties Strengthen with Trump's Return to Power?

India's defense relationship with the United States is expected to grow stronger if former President Donald Trump returns to the White House. A significant factor driving this collaboration is the shared concern over China's assertive presence in the Indo-Pacific and Indian Ocean Region (IOR).

The deepening of defense ties could include more joint exercises and security initiatives, particularly to monitor Chinese submarine activities in the IOR. Sources suggest that Trump may push for a greater military focus within the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad), a move India has previously approached with caution.

Negotiations are currently underway for manufacturing GE-F414 engines for Tejas Mark-II jets, with an anticipated 80% transfer of technology valued at around $1 billion. "The Trump administration will not be an obstacle to such projects but might seek a higher price for advanced technology transfer," an official said.

Other areas of interest include the potential purchase of 114 multi-role fighter aircraft, estimated to cost around Rs 1.25 lakh crore. India is also exploring co-production of Stryker armored vehicles and Javelin anti-tank missiles, which were recently displayed in Ladakh.

The U.S. has already secured over $25 billion in defense deals with India since 2007, overtaking Russia as India's primary arms supplier for several years.

One of the key advancements in bilateral defense cooperation is India's acquisition of the MQ-9B Predator drones. This $3.3 billion deal, finalized last month, includes 31 weaponized drones, significantly enhancing India's aerial surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities. Additionally, a $520 million agreement with General Atomics will establish a Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility in India, further strengthening India's self-reliance in defense.

These UAVs are equipped with advanced sensors and payloads, improving India's strategic monitoring, especially concerning Chinese submarine movements. The MRO facility will also provide long-term support for these drones, bolstering the India-US defense partnership amid growing regional security concerns.

While these projects are just a few examples of the tightening defense ties, there is widespread bipartisan support in the U.S. for strengthening cooperation with India, viewing it as a counterbalance to China's influence in the Indo-Pacific. This partnership is also beneficial for India, particularly in light of the growing Russia-China alliance.

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