Readout of Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks’ Meeting With Indian Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane
Introduction:
In a significant step towards strengthening the U.S.-India defense partnership, Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks recently met with Indian Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane at the Pentagon. This high-level meeting aimed to discuss crucial priorities, including enhancing defense industrial cooperation and operational collaboration. The Pentagon Spokesman, Eric Pahon, provided a detailed readout of the meeting, highlighting the key areas of focus and the importance of the U.S.-India relationship in promoting peace and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region and beyond. This blog post provides an overview of the meeting’s outcomes and its significance for the bilateral defense partnership.
Strengthening the U.S.-India Defense Partnership:
During the meeting, Deputy Secretary Hicks emphasized the vital role of the U.S.-India defense partnership in advancing peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Recognizing India’s defense modernization objectives, she reaffirmed the United States’ support for India’s initiatives, including increased investments in Indian domestic manufacturing. This commitment underscores the mutual interest in bolstering defense capabilities and fostering technological collaboration between the two nations.
Unprecedented Opportunities for Collaboration:
Deputy Secretary Hicks highlighted the groundbreaking opportunities for collaboration presented by the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET). She discussed proposals to co-produce jet engines, long-range artillery, and infantry vehicles, emphasizing their potential to strengthen ties between the U.S. and Indian defense sectors. These initiatives not only promote technological advancements but also deepen military-to-military relations, creating a robust foundation for future collaboration.
The Launch of INDUS-X and Defense Innovation Ecosystems:
Both leaders expressed enthusiasm for the upcoming launch of INDUS-X, scheduled in advance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States in June. INDUS-X is seen as a valuable platform for promoting partnerships between the defense innovation ecosystems of the two countries. By fostering joint research, development, and innovation, INDUS-X aims to advance technological capabilities and address shared security challenges. The launch of this initiative marks another milestone in the evolving U.S.-India defense relationship.
Key Outcomes of the Defense Policy Group Dialogue:
Deputy Secretary Hicks and Defence Secretary Aramane discussed the recent Defense Policy Group dialogue, chaired by Defence Secretary Aramane and Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Dr. Colin Kahl. The dialogue served as a platform to address crucial issues and outcomes, further solidifying the defense partnership. By engaging in open and constructive discussions, the two nations strengthen their understanding of shared security concerns and explore avenues for cooperation.
Continued Progress and Future Engagements:
Deputy Secretary Hicks and Defence Secretary Aramane expressed their commitment to advancing the U.S.-India strategic partnership. They pledged to continue working towards enhancing cooperation and progress in the defense domain. Additionally, both leaders eagerly anticipated upcoming high-level engagements between the two countries later in the year. These engagements will provide further opportunities to deepen collaboration, exchange expertise, and reinforce the strategic importance of the U.S.-India defense partnership.
Blog Post Summary :
The meeting between Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks and Indian Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane showcased the dedication of both nations to strengthening their defense partnership. By emphasizing the importance of collaboration, technology transfer, and military-to-military relations, the meeting laid the foundation for future advancements in defense cooperation. The United States and India remain committed to promoting peace, security, and prosperity in the Indo-Pacific region, and the outcomes of this meeting reaffirm their shared commitment to a strong and enduring strategic partnership.