India and the United States are reportedly in the "advanced stage of talks" for the potential joint production of the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs). This initiative falls under their broader defence-industrial cooperation roadmap, signifying a deepening strategic partnership between the two nations.
The US has proposed a three-phase plan for this project, starting with a limited purchase of Stryker vehicles through the US foreign military sales (FMS) program. This will be followed by joint production in India, with the ultimate goal of co-developing futuristic versions tailored to India's specific needs.
The success of the project hinges on the Stryker's ability to meet the Indian Army's operational requirements and a high level of indigenization, including the transfer of critical technologies to the chosen Indian co-production partner. This partner could be either a defence public sector undertaking (PSU) or a private firm.
Customization for Indian Terrain and Operational Needs
The Strykers will need to be customized and technologically configured for Indian terrain, particularly for operations in high-altitude areas like eastern Ladakh and Sikkim.
While the Indian Army has a significant requirement for futuristic ICVs, it also needs vehicles capable of amphibious operations, a feature not currently available in the Stryker.
The US is actively promoting the Stryker, with Secretary of Defence Lloyd J. Austin citing its co-production with India as a key indicator of the growing bilateral defence partnership. This potential deal adds to the approximately $22 billion worth of Indian defence contracts awarded to the US since 2007.
Other Major Defence Deals in Progress
While the Stryker project is still under discussion, India and the US are finalizing two major defence deals within the current financial year.
The first is the acquisition of 31 armed MQ-9B high-altitude, long-endurance drones and associated equipment, valued at $3.9 billion.
The second involves the co-production of GE-F414 jet engines by General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics for the Tejas Mark-II fighters in India, with a significant transfer of technology estimated at around $1 billion.
These developments highlight the deepening defence cooperation between India and the US, with a focus on co-production and technology transfer to enhance India's indigenous defence capabilities.
While challenges remain in terms of meeting specific operational requirements and ensuring a high level of indigenization, the potential for a successful Stryker joint production venture represents a significant step forward in their strategic partnership.
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