India’s strategic choices

Source: The post is based on the article “India’s strategic choices” published in “Business Standard” on 7th July 2023.

Syllabus: Syllabus: GS 2- Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests & GS 3- Science and Technology- indigenization of technology and developing new technology.

News: the article talks about the issues associated with the outcomes of recent PM’s visit to Foreign Countries.

Why are the possible issues arising from recent deals?

prepares for another visit to Paris, there are speculations about a potential partnership with French engine-maker Safran to design and develop an engine for India’s futuristic, fifth-generation Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA). However, this could stir controversy as the British firm, Rolls-Royce, has also offered to partner with the Defence Research & Development Organisation (DRDO) for the same project.

Prior Commitment to US-Made Engines: The Indian Ministry of Defence (MoD) has already committed to using US-made General Electric (GE) engines for the Tejas fighter. This existing commitment adds another layer of complexity to the situation. If India now enters into a major agreement with Safran for the AMCA project, it might raise questions about the coherence of India’s defense procurement strategy.

Strategic Implications: The AMCA project has immense strategic importance for India, as it is expected to be a crucial component of the Indian Air Force’s fifth-generation fighter fleet. Thus, any controversy surrounding its development could cast a shadow on the broader procurement process and strategy of India’s defense sector.

What are the India’s limitations in co-developing defence equipment with US?

Capability differential: The primary constraint in US-India high technology cooperation has been the disparity in technological capabilities. Historically, the Indian side has had a more limited range of high-tech offerings compared to the advanced technology available in the US.

Limited co-development experience: India’s limitations in co-developing defence equipment have been an obstacle. Past collaborations have revealed challenges related to technical expertise, manufacturing capabilities, and infrastructure, which have constrained the depth of cooperation.

India has a long history of space collaboration with Russia. Indian scientists were traditionally trained in Russia, and the country played a significant role in India’s first astronaut mission in 1984. This historical connection with Russia in the space domain could potentially impact the dynamics of space collaboration between India and the US, as India’s past association with Russia might influence its approach to collaborations with other countries, including the US.

What can we conclude from the recent developments?

India’s Prime Minister  international engagements reflect India’s balancing act in maintaining diverse alliances. The India-US relationship is improving with new initiatives, notably in high-tech cooperation and space. Despite this, India’s historic ties with Russia and its commitment to multiple vendors in defence deals, such as Safran and GE, highlight potential complexities. Additionally, the lack of consensus at the SCO meeting signifies geopolitical constraints. However, through careful diplomacy, India aims to solidify its place in the international landscape by strengthening relationships and pursuing strategic partnerships.