Rajnath Singh's Visit Enhances India-US Defence Partnership

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Naval Surface Warfare Centre in Carderock, highlighting significant India-US defence cooperation. He interacted with senior executives from US defence companies and emphasized collaborative ventures. Singh also discussed bilateral defence issues with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, strengthening supply chain resilience and industrial cooperation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh visited the Naval Surface Warfare Centre at Carderock on Saturday, observing various experiments and facilities. In a social media post, Singh expressed optimism about India and the US working together and benefiting from shared experiences.

On his four-day official visit to the US, Singh participated in an industry roundtable with senior leaders of US defence companies, organized by the US-India Strategic Partnership Forum. He outlined emerging co-development and co-production opportunities in India's defence sector. Progressive reforms by the Indian government have encouraged many foreign Original Equipment Manufacturers, including those from the US, to establish manufacturing units in India and form Joint Ventures. Notably, the planned co-production of GE 414 aero-engines in India marks a significant milestone in India-US relations.

Singh emphasized the importance of 'partnership' and 'joint efforts,' which sets India's defence collaborations apart. The meeting saw participation from representatives of major US defence firms like Boeing, GE, General Atomics, General Dynamics Land Systems, L3 Harris, Lockheed Martin, Raytheon Technologies, Rolls Royce, and ThayerMahan. Additionally, Indian companies such as ideaForge, Tata Sons, and Tsecond, along with senior leaders from The Cohen Group, attended the interaction.

During these interactions, business leaders discussed their ongoing projects and shared future plans for India, providing valuable feedback. Singh highlighted that India welcomes US investment and technological collaboration, showcasing its skilled labor force, pro-FDI and pro-business environment, and a large domestic market.

In a bilateral meeting at the Pentagon with US Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin, Singh expressed satisfaction over the conclusion of the Security of Supplies Arrangement (SOSA). This agreement enhances collaboration between the defence industrial ecosystems of both countries and strengthens supply chain resilience. The leaders also discussed regional security and other international issues.

Rajnath Singh's visit to the US is scheduled from August 23 to 26.

(With inputs from agencies.)