U.S. DEFENCE STRATEGY
The evolving U.S. defence strategy places greater responsibility on regional partners such as India. Discuss its implications for India-U.S. strategic relations and India’s strategic autonomy. (10 Marks, 150 Words)
Model Answer
Introduction
The 2026 U.S. defence strategy emphasises homeland security, deterrence of China, stronger allies and partners, and rebuilding the U.S. defence industry. This indicates a shift towards greater burden-sharing by regional partners.
Implications for India
- Indo-Pacific: Greater expectations from India to contribute to regional stability and deter Chinese dominance.
- Defence cooperation: Scope for deeper cooperation in defence technology, military capabilities and defence-industrial production.
- Supply chains: Opportunities to strengthen resilient technology and critical supply chains.
- Strategic leverage: A stronger economy, military and technology base can enhance India’s bargaining power with Washington.
- Strategic autonomy: India must balance closer U.S. cooperation with continued partnerships with Russia, France, Japan, Europe and other countries.
Way Forward
India should strengthen indigenous defence manufacturing, technological capabilities and economic power while maintaining diversified partnerships.
Conclusion
India-U.S. relations should evolve from dependence-based partnership to capability-based cooperation, combining deeper strategic engagement with strategic autonomy.