Indian Army Chief Manoj Pande Upcoming US Visit Aimed at Strengthening Defense Ties and Tech Collaboration

Defense News ,India :- Indian Army Chief General Manoj Pande is heading to the United States for an important visit focused on boosting the partnership between the two countries and enhancing military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region. This visit aligns with discussions about jointly producing Stryker armored fighting vehicles, highlighting efforts to expand defense collaboration.

Key Talks and Goals

From February 13 to 16, General Pande will meet with his US counterpart, General Randy George, and other senior officials. The agenda covers various topics, including military transformation, collaborative production initiatives, and addressing challenges posed by China in the Indo-Pacific. The discussions aim to strengthen the ties between the Indian and US military forces.

Exploring Defense Collaborations

India and the US are exploring the possibility of jointly manufacturing Stryker armored infantry combat vehicles. These discussions, initiated during the two-plus-two ministerial dialogue on November 10, aim to utilize India's existing capabilities in the production process.

Additionally, negotiations are underway for the co-production of GE-F414 jet engines for India's Tejas Mark-II fighters. This deal, valued at around $1 billion, involves significant technology transfer, with the contract expected to be finalized in the coming months.

Advancements in Defense Technology

Commercial negotiations are progressing for India's acquisition of 31 MQ-9B high-altitude, long-endurance drones, signaling progress in defense procurement plans. The deal, worth $3.9 billion, includes drones for the Navy and the Army and Air Force.

Roadmap for Collaboration

Both nations have established a bilateral defense-industrial cooperation roadmap to expedite technology collaboration and co-production efforts. Priority areas include air combat and support systems, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance capabilities, ground mobility systems, undersea domain awareness, and smart munitions.

Strengthening Supply Chains

Efforts are underway to enhance supply chain resilience through initiatives like the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), aiming to integrate defense-industrial ecosystems between India and the US. Discussions are ongoing for a Reciprocal Defense Procurement agreement, though full materialization may take some time.

General Pande's visit emphasizes the commitment of both countries to deepen defense ties and address shared security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region. The evolving dynamics of the India-US strategic partnership are reflected in these collaborative efforts.