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During the Shangri La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin highlighted the robust state of US-India relations, describing them as stronger than ever. He noted that the two nations are currently co-producing armoured vehicles, marking significant progress in defence collaboration.

 

Austin's comments at Asia’s premier security summit emphasised the momentum in the US-India bilateral relationship. He recalled the initial scepticism about the approval for India to build jet engines for fighter aircraft domestically. Despite the challenges, the project has moved forward successfully.

 

"Several years ago, we set out with a notion to gain approval for India to build jet engines for fighter aircraft in India. I served on the board of a company that makes jet engines for fighter aircraft. And I know how difficult this was going to be. We were hopeful, but very sceptical that we could get this across the finish line. We did it. That’s happening," Austin said. He added that the US is also co-producing armoured vehicles with India.

 

Austin underscored the use of new technology and training, particularly for Southeast Asia, reflecting the strategic importance of these advancements. He believes the current momentum in US-India ties will continue to grow, driven by shared values and a common vision. "So the anchors of our progress are sunk pretty deep throughout the region, and they’re based on a common vision and common values. And so I believe that the momentum that we see is going to not only continue, but it’s going to…that flywheel is going to pick up speed because this benefits us all," he stated. Austin expressed confidence that the relationship's positive trajectory would be lasting.

 

The Shangri-La Dialogue, organised by the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), is a key inter-governmental security conference held annually in Singapore.

 

It serves as a platform for defence ministers, military chiefs, and other senior officials from Asia-Pacific and beyond to discuss regional security challenges.

 

Earlier this year, Austin described the US-India deal to co-produce jet weapons as revolutionary. He highlighted that such joint ventures not only enhance capabilities but also strengthen bilateral defence ties.

 

The landmark agreement was first announced during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s state visit to the US in June last year. General Electric and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited signed a memorandum of understanding to produce fighter jet engines for the Indian Air Force.

 

In a related development, the Biden Administration notified the US Congress in February of its intent to sell nearly $4 billion worth of arms to India, including MQ-9B drones armed with Hellfire missiles.

 

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated that this sale aims to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship, recognizing New Delhi as a key force for stability and progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions.

 

This strengthening of defence ties underscores the growing strategic partnership between the US and India, marked by collaborative projects and mutual support in enhancing regional security and technological capabilities.