Biden and Modi Strengthen US-India Defense Ties with New Agreements

US President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have advanced US-India defense cooperation with progress on India's procurement of 31 MQ-9B drones from General Atomics. They discussed further bilateral defense hardware supplies and new collaborations in unmanned surface vehicles and MRO services. The leaders also commended initiatives in space and cyber domains.

President Joe Biden and Prime Minister Narendra Modi have made significant strides in bolstering US-India defense relations. The leaders met in Wilmington, Delaware, discussing a slew of initiatives to strengthen their military and defense cooperation.

A major highlight was India's move towards acquiring 31 General Atomics MQ-9B drones, enhancing its intelligence and surveillance capabilities. The agreement, estimated at over USD 3 billion, aims to reinforce India's oversight along its frontier with China and in the Indian Ocean.

The two leaders also celebrated the recent progress in defense industrial cooperation, including co-production deals for jet engines and munitions. Additionally, they emphasized the importance of innovation and industry collaboration in aviation and cyberspace, underscoring a continued commitment to deepening strategic ties.

(With inputs from agencies.)