UPSC Paper: GS Paper III – PM’s Visit to USA

Question 3 :Discuss the significance of the U.S.-India defense partnership in the context of India’s national security and strategic autonomy. How does the new defense framework contribute to India’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing?

UPSC Paper: GS Paper III

🔹 Syllabus Topic: Security challenges and their management in border areas; linkages of organized crime with terrorism

Answer:

The U.S.-India defense partnership has gained significant momentum, transforming India from a buyer of defense equipment to a key strategic partner in co-production and technology sharing. The latest ten-year Framework for the U.S.-India Major Defense Partnership strengthens bilateral defense ties by:

  • Expanding defense procurement, including advanced Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles.
  • Enhancing India’s maritime security with six additional P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft.
  • Streamlining technology transfer through ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations) reforms.
  • Establishing an Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA) to advance AI-enabled defense systems.

The defense partnership contributes to India’s self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat) in defense manufacturing by enabling joint development, technology transfers, and easing procurement processes. The Reciprocal Defense Procurement (RDP) agreement aligns procurement policies, ensuring greater compatibility and interoperability. Moreover, India’s participation in co-production initiatives reduces reliance on foreign imports, fostering indigenous capabilities.

From a strategic perspective, the enhanced logistics and intelligence-sharing framework boosts India’s preparedness for regional security challenges, particularly in the Indo-Pacific. The strengthening of joint military exercises like “Tiger Triumph” enhances force coordination. However, maintaining strategic autonomy remains crucial for India, balancing deepening ties with the U.S. while retaining independent decision-making in defense policies.