India-US defence relations: Four takeaways from Ashton Carter's talks with Manohar Parrikar

NEW DELHI: Reaffirming their commitment to expand and deepen the bilateral defence relationship, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar and US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter on Wednesday signed the 2015 Framework for the India-US Defence Relationship. The two also reviewed the existing and emerging regional security dynamics.

We take a look at four key takeaways from Defence Minister Parrikar and US Defence Secretary Ashton Carter's talks:

1) New Defence framework: The new framework builds upon the previous one and looks to guide the bilateral defence and strategic partnership for the next ten years. The new framework agreement provides avenues for high level strategic discussions, continued exchanges between armed forces of both countries, and strengthening of defence capabilities.

The framework also recognizes the transformative nature of the Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI).

2) Two project agreements: Both India and the United States have finalized two project agreements for joint development of Mobile Electric Hybrid Power Sources and the Next Generation Protective Ensembles.

3) Future defence relations & Make in India: In addition, building on the areas of agreement during US President Barack Obama's visit to India in January 2015, Defence Minister Parrikar and US Secretary Carter agreed to expedite discussions to take forward cooperation on jet engines, aircraft carrier design and construction, and other areas.

The two also agreed to pursue co-development and co-production projects that will offer tangible opportunities for American defence industries to build defence partnership with the Indian industries including in manufacturing under 'Make in India'.

4) Strategic Partnership: Parrikar and Carter also discussed the India-US defence relationship, and the broader India-US strategic partnership. The two also reviewed the existing and emerging regional security dynamics.

Parrikar and Carter agreed to continue their efforts to enhance bilateral cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as maritime security and knowledge partnership in the field of defence.

During his official visit to India, Carter also called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He met External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj and the National Security Adviser Ajit Doval. Before arriving in Delhi, Secretary Carter also visited the Eastern Naval Command.