NEWS – India and US Unveil Vision for Next Chapter of Strategic Tech Partnership

KEY HIGHLIGHTS

• New Initiatives: India and the US introduced several initiatives to enhance cooperation in key technological areas.
• Focus Areas: Semiconductors, artificial intelligence, critical minerals, advanced telecommunications, and defense space were highlighted.
• Strategic Trade: Both countries pledged to remove barriers to strategic trade.

High-Level Discussions

• Participants: National Security Advisor Ajit Doval (India) and US counterpart Jake Sullivan.
• Defence Acquisitions:
  • India’s planned acquisition of 31 MQ-9B Predator drones.
  • Proposed joint manufacturing of Stryker infantry combat vehicles.
  • Negotiations for co-production of GE F414 engines for future Indian fighter jets.

ICET INITIATIVE

• Introduction:
  • Launched in May 2022.
  • Managed by the National Security Councils of India and the US.
• Objective: To design, develop, and deploy technology aligned with democratic values and strengthen Indo-Pacific security.

Areas of Cooperation

1. Focus on collaborative scientific advancements.
2. Quantum and Artificial Intelligence – Joint efforts in cutting-edge technology domains.
3. Co-development and co-production in defense technology.
4. Cooperation in space exploration and technology.
5. Advanced Telecommunications: Development of next-generation telecom technologies like 6G
6. Collaboration in semiconductor manufacturing and innovation.

Significance of iCET

• Linkages: Closer ties between government, academia, and industry in both countries.
• Global Impact: Aim to provide affordable cutting-edge technologies worldwide.
• Strategic Alignment:
  • Align strategic, commercial, and scientific approaches.
  • Potential to influence the progress in the Quad (Australia, Japan, India, and the US) and NATO.