India, US to partner in armoured vehicle production

India and the US will co-produce an infantry combat vehicle as part of defence industrial cooperation, US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin said on Friday.

Following the ‘2+2’ defence and foreign ministerial dialogue in Delhi, Austin, along with Secretary of State Antony Blinken, engaged with their Indian counterparts, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Austin emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts in producing an armoured vehicle, highlighting the mutual commitment of both nations. The talks encompassed a wide range of issues, with a particular focus on the escalating security challenges posed by China. However, Austin emphasized that the US-India relationship goes beyond responding to challenges from China, emphasising the shared values that underpin the partnership.

Addressing a question about India’s procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones from the US, Austin mentioned that the announcement would be made at an opportune time. He commended Indian officials for their efforts to expedite the acquisition of this capability.

Austin highlighted the broadening scope of US-India defence activities, spanning domains from space to undersea operations. The two nations exchanged views on key developments in the Indo-Pacific region, the Middle East, and Ukraine. Austin reassured that the cooperation between the US and India is currently at its strongest.

In conclusion, the defence secretary affirmed the robust nature of the US-India partnership, emphasizing its strength across various domains. The collaborative effort in co-producing an infantry combat vehicle and discussions on crucial geopolitical developments underscore the depth and breadth of the defence ties between the two nations.