The United States and India have renewed a commitment first made 10 years ago to cooperate in the trade, development and production of defense technology.
The agreement to extend the pact by another 10 years was finalized over the weekend during President Barack Obama’s visit to the country that included meetings with Indian Prime Minister Nerandra Modi. It would have expired this year.
The U.S.-India Defense Technology and Trade Initiative is part of a broader overall effort between the two countries to expand relations and cooperate on a wide range of issues.
“In a major step forward for our relationship, our Defense Technology and Trade Initiative will allow us to jointly develop and produce new defense technologies,” Obama said during a press conference with Modi in New Delhi.
In a statement released by the Pentagon on Sunday, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel said the two countries will explore “pathfinder” projects such as a working group for aircraft carrier technology and the cooperation of the development of jet engine advancements. Hagel also said the agreement allows both sides to cooperate in science and technology for the next 15 years.
“The president’s announcements signal a new depth and sophistication in our defense and security cooperation,” Hagel said.
India is also a focal point of Pentagon efforts to streamline the process for exporting weapons and other hardware, to make it easier for countries, especially ones growing India’s rate, to acquire U.S. military products.
Modi said the two countries will strive to work together on maritime security and pointed out that the agreement will help further develop India’s defense industry.
“We have agreed in principle to pursue co-development and co-production of specific advanced defense projects,” Modi said. “This will help upgrade our domestic defense industry and expand the manufacturing sector in India.”