US-India Defense Cooperation
What is India's AMCA stealth fighter project and what are its goals?
India's indigenous AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft) stealth fighter project aims to deliver seven squadrons by 2035. This ambitious initiative represents a significant advancement in India's military aviation capabilities, positioning the country to join an elite group of stealth aircraft manufacturers globally. The successful implementation of this project would place India alongside major military powers like the US, Russia, and China in advanced fighter jet development. The timing of this project is noteworthy as India also considers international options like the F35 and SU57 fighters.
Watch clip answer (00:16m)
WION
01:58 - 02:15
What is India's response to President Trump's proposal to sell F35 fighter jets to India?
According to Defense Secretary Rajesh Kumar Singh, India has not yet received any formal offer from the US regarding F35 fighter jets, despite President Trump's proposal during his meeting with Prime Minister Modi in Washington DC. Singh clarified that once a formal offer is made, India will evaluate it with an open mind. The Defense Secretary's statement indicates India's pragmatic approach to defense acquisitions, neither rejecting nor accepting the proposal prematurely. This stance allows India to carefully assess the strategic and technical merits of the F35 jets when an official proposal arrives.
Watch clip answer (00:29m)WION
00:00 - 00:29
How do the American F35 and Russian SU57 fighter jets compare in terms of specifications and costs?
The American F35 has a top speed of Mach 1.6 and a combat range of 1500 kilometers, with a price tag between $80-110 million per unit. In comparison, Russia's SU57 offers superior performance with a higher speed of Mach 2 and an extended range of 1900 kilometers, while costing significantly less at $35-40 million per unit. Both jets represent cutting-edge military technology being offered to India as it evaluates its defense procurement options. The comparison highlights the trade-offs between American and Russian military hardware, with the Russian option providing better specifications at a substantially lower price point.
Watch clip answer (00:52m)WION
00:57 - 01:49
What areas of cooperation are being expanded between the United States and India?
The United States and India are expanding cooperation in both defense and energy sectors. In defense, India has expressed interest in acquiring American military hardware, specifically the advanced F35 stealth fighter jets, signaling strengthened military collaboration between the nations. On the energy front, India's growing demand for oil and gas presents significant opportunities for American exporters. As a global leader in oil and gas production, the US is positioned to help meet India's increasing energy needs. India is expected to substantially increase its energy purchases from the United States, a shift that would simultaneously satisfy India's growing requirements while boosting US exports.
Watch clip answer (00:39m)
WION
01:52 - 02:32
What were the main focus areas of the talks between President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi?
President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi held extensive talks focused on strengthening bilateral ties across multiple sectors. Their discussions specifically targeted three key areas: trade, defense, and energy cooperation between the United States and India. Both nations have already demonstrated their commitment to addressing trade barriers, showing a proactive approach to resolving economic challenges. These high-level discussions represent an important step in the ongoing development of strategic relations between the two countries, with concrete actions already being taken to improve cooperation.
Watch clip answer (00:17m)WION
00:00 - 00:17
How is the United States strengthening security cooperation with India?
President Trump has confirmed the approval of an extradition request for a suspect involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, signaling enhanced US-India security collaboration. Beyond this specific case, both nations are strengthening cooperation in counterterrorism and cybersecurity areas, with Trump indicating more such agreements in the near future. While addressing trade imbalances and market access remains important, the security partnership serves as a foundation for the evolving bilateral relationship. This cooperation reflects how the US-India partnership continues to develop, driven by shared economic interests and security priorities.
Watch clip answer (00:33m)WION
03:11 - 03:45