US is actively discussing military system production with India: Pentagon

Washington: The United States is currently engaged in active discussions with the Indian government regarding the potential production of military systems.

The talks are about areas related to Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) and ground-based conventional warfare, said Siddharth Iyer, Director for South Asia Policy at the Office of the Secretary of Defence.

This announcement was made at an event organised by the Hudson Institute.

Efforts are also being made to establish a reciprocal defence procurement agreement with India, Iyer mentioned. He indicated that progress is being made in talks between India and the United States to finalise a security of supply arrangement that would facilitate defence firms in procuring their requirements.

Iyer, an Indian-American, emphasised that the Pentagon views this relationship as one of its top priorities.

He said, "Our belief is that getting the US-India relationship right is not just necessary, it's essential to achieving our strategy in the Indo-Pacific. There's a broad and deep commitment to making that happen."

He also highlighted the commitment to accelerating India's military modernisation, particularly by advancing India's indigenous defence production capabilities.

The India-US defence roadmap identifies priority military areas for collaborative efforts between their industries, establishes mechanisms for supply chain integration, and implements oversight measures to overcome bureaucratic and regulatory barriers.

Iyer drew attention to the significance of the GE engine deal, which provides India with access to sensitive jet engine technology. He noted that while it is an arrangement between private companies, governments have worked closely together to advance technology security while balancing national security requirements.

He also expects progress in various areas in the coming months.