India and the US have solidified a strategic framework aimed at enhancing cooperation in human spaceflight, with a focus on improving interoperability in space exploration. Following the iCET Dialogue between US National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, a joint fact-sheet was released outlining key initiatives.
The framework includes plans to initiate advanced training for Indian astronauts at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, marking a significant step in space collaboration between the two nations. Additionally, discussions highlighted potential Indian involvement in the Lunar Gateway Programme, an essential component of the US-led Artemis initiative for establishing a moon-orbiting space station.
The dialogue also addressed joint ventures in various space technologies, notably securing transportation for the inaugural joint mission of NASA and the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) astronauts to the International Space Station.
Furthermore, the dialogue underscored strengthened cooperation in defence space activities, including recent engagements such as the Advanced Domains Defense Dialogue at the Pentagon. This included discussions on emerging domains like artificial intelligence, highlighting the evolving strategic ties in space security.
Both countries are also gearing up for the launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite, aimed at mapping the Earth’s surface bi-weekly to support climate change mitigation and address global challenges.
Additionally, the iCET dialogue introduced a new partnership between the US Space Force and Indian startups 114ai and 3rdiTech, focusing on advancing space situational awareness, data fusion technologies, and infra-red sensor semiconductor manufacturing.
The partnership also emphasized India’s participation in the US Space Command’s Global Sentinel Exercise, with plans for continued engagement in future iterations from 2025 onwards. These developments reflect the deepening cooperation between India and the US in leveraging space capabilities for mutual benefit and global progress.