Journal of Defence Studies

Customised Defence Agreements: Foundation for a Strong Indo-US Defence Partnership

The defence cooperation between India and the United States has been deepening. This is largely attributed to the signing of four key agreements, namely the General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA), the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA), the Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), and the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA). Prior to these agreements, arms trade and technology transfers were virtually impossible, as the US Congress had blocked them. Before these deals were inked, India’s major procurements from the US were confined to non-lethal systems, like transport aircraft, heavy lifter helicopters, and maritime patrol aircraft. With the basic agreements in place, there is an increased scope for the US to not only transfer advanced systems and technology to India but also to jointly produce them in India. From the point of view of Washington, this is a major shift, given that earlier not only had US denied its own weapons and advanced technology transfer to India but it also prevented other countries from providing even civilian technology. The belief then was that India could use these technology transfers for its missile development programme, which could possibly prove detrimental to the US’ national interests. Cut to present, there has been a considerable degree of convergence in terms of security interests, and the above-mentioned agreements are well placed to achieve those objectives.

Joshy M. Paul |
January-March 2025 |
Journal of Defence Studies

Sailing on the Seven Seas: Indo-US Strategic Partnership in the Indo-Pacific

The Indo-Pacific is the primary geography of the Indo-US defence cooperation. In the last two decades, both sides have deepened their strategic relationship. Maritime cooperation is the hallmark of Indo-US defence ties. India and the US are members of the Quad and American drones are bolstering India’s naval capabilities. India is participating in the US-led maritime security efforts like the Combined Maritime Forces. The ties are strong to the extent where American vessels are servicing at the Indian shipyards. However, the relationship is not without its challenges too. India’s scepticism about the American credibility and the isolationist turn in the US politics do present dilemmas in the relationship.

History of Cold War Estrangement to Strategic Partnership and the Evolution of India–US Defence Cooperation

Indo-US relations witnessed considerable swings during the first five decades post India’s independence, shaped by geopolitical challenges and Cold War dynamics. Defence cooperation between the two nations began in 1962, when India, confronting conflict with China, sought assistance from President Kennedy. However, a deep rift developed as the US aligned with Pakistan during the 1971 Indo-Pak War and deteriorated further after India’s nuclear tests. Despite these setbacks, the turn of the 21st century marked a shift towards engagement, leading to a steady progression towards a strategic partnership. Over time, mutual interests, regional security concerns, and India’s growing global stature contributed to strengthening defence cooperation. The world has transitioned into a new era of strategic rivalry, where the China factor is driving India and the United States towards closer cooperation. This article explores the historical evolution of Indo-US defence relations, analysing the transition from Cold War estrangement to strategic partnership.