- Let’s start by learning the actual situation of the Indian military establishment’s ability to combat the power of the enemies. Since gaining its independence, the Indian military has relied heavily on foreign hardware, weapons, ammunition, and aircraft to not only protect the country’s sovereignty but also to demonstrate our offensive prowess. Take note that 70% of our military supplies are of Russian origin, demonstrating our reliance on Moscow. It is understandable why the protracted conflict between Russia and Ukraine has seriously weakened the operational readiness of our armed forces due to a lack of supplies and essential military equipment. It’s time for Indian leadership to take military inventory production domestically seriously.
PC: PTI
- Indeed, efforts to manufacture military equipment locally have made some success, but not in the ways that were anticipated. As a result, we continue to rely heavily on other nations to help us strengthen our defense capabilities. If there is no other choice, it is wise to keep an eye out for like-minded allies who can assist India’s military needs by extending technological transfer and know-how to construct the military equipment, including fighter jets locally. Recently, one such constructive action was observed. India and the US have cleared the way for joint production of fighter jet engines that will power India’s future air combat platforms, marking a significant improvement in their strategic relationship. The official signing will probably take place during PM Modi’s visit to the US later this month.
- The GE-F414 engines’ technology will be transferred in full as part of the agreement. To put this into perspective, only the US, UK, Russia, and France manufacture jet engines. But China has made significant progress by copying Soviet jet engines. It will take India decades to get there on its own, as jet engine manufacturing is in the top tier of technology manufacturing. We are aware of how the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft’s technical specifications were not met by the indigenous engine development program. As a result, the new bilateral defense-industrial cooperation strategy as well as the jet engine agreement with the US are crucial. The development of India’s military-industrial complex should start with this.
PC: PTI
- Also, this action is consistent with Atma Nirbhar Defence’s objectives. Remember, though, that Beijing will continue to be New Delhi’s major strategic adversary for the foreseeable future due to Chinese PLA incursions along the LAC. India already faces a strong threat from the China-Pakistan axis, but the conflict in Ukraine and the new China-Russia agreement need New Delhi to reassess its relationship with Moscow, a traditional defense supplier. In fact, in East and West Asia as well as in Africa, India’s interests are more in line with those of the US. To handle its immediate strategic-security issues as well as its necessary desire to remain a net provider of stability in South Asia and beyond, New Delhi needs to improve its military ties with the US.
