National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval is currently in the United States for high-level discussions that aim to enhance India’s defense and technological capabilities. The visit comes at a crucial time when India is striving to achieve self-reliance in defense manufacturing under the ‘Make in India’ and ‘Atmanirbhar Bharat’ initiatives. These talks will focus on forging deeper cooperation between India and the U.S., particularly in defense technology transfers, which will help India reduce its dependency on foreign imports and strengthen its domestic production. Given the evolving geopolitical landscape, this visit is expected to have a lasting impact on India-U.S. strategic relations, further solidifying their defense and technological partnerships.

One of the primary objectives of Doval’s visit is to secure critical technology transfers that will enhance India’s domestic defense manufacturing capabilities. He is likely to emphasize the need for a structured approach toward co-development and co-production of advanced defense systems, ensuring India’s self-sufficiency in military technology. By securing these key agreements, India is not only aiming to strengthen its indigenous defense industry but also position itself as a global exporter of high-tech defense equipment in the coming years. A major point of focus during these discussions is the acquisition of critical defense technologies, which aligns with Indias broader vision of reducing its reliance on foreign imports. India aims to ensure that advanced military hardware can be produced locally, strengthening its industrial base while making it less dependent on foreign nations. The ‘Make in India’ initiative plays a crucial role in this effort, encouraging domestic defense production and fostering international collaborations that prioritize technology transfer.

Additionally, India is actively pursuing advanced fighter jet engines from the United States to power its indigenous fifth-generation fighter jets. A landmark agreement has already been signed between General Electric (GE) and Hindustan Aeronautics Limited (HAL), under which GE will transfer 80% of its engine technology to HAL. This collaboration will enable the production of over 150 F414 jet engines in India, supporting the Indian Air Force’s Tejas Mk II fighter jet program. This deal is a significant breakthrough, as it represents a major step toward self-reliance in advanced aircraft engine manufacturing, an area where India has historically depended on foreign suppliers. Beyond defense manufacturing, Doval is also expected to focus on civil nuclear cooperation, a sector that has long been hindered by regulatory challenges. The U.S. is currently working to lift legal restrictions that have prevented full-scale collaboration between American nuclear companies and Indian nuclear entities. If successful, this move will open new avenues for joint projects in nuclear energy development, helping India strengthen its clean energy sector while establishing resilient supply chains for nuclear technology.

Doval’s visit is also expected to pave the way for key defense acquisitions that will bolster India’s military capabilities. Among the most significant deals under discussion is the purchase of MQ-9B Predator drones. The U.S. has already agreed to sell 31 MQ-9B Reaper drones to India, a deal estimated at $4 billion. There is also the possibility of a technology transfer, allowing for partial manufacturing and assembly of these drones within India. These cutting-edge UAVs will significantly enhance India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, particularly in monitoring its borders and ensuring maritime security in the Indo-Pacific region. Another major point of interest for India is the transfer of Javelin missile technology. India is keen on acquiring this technology to bolster its domestic missile production capabilities, reinforcing its ability to produce advanced anti-tank guided missiles (ATGMs). By securing a technology-sharing agreement, India aims to manufacture these missiles domestically, reducing reliance on external suppliers while ensuring technological self-sufficiency in its defense sector.

India is also engaged in discussions about acquiring Stryker armored vehicles, which would significantly enhance the mobility and firepower of its mechanized infantry units. Reports suggest that India is considering the procurement of around 300 Stryker Infantry Carrier Vehicles (ICVs). Given India’s growing emphasis on modernizing its land-based forces, acquiring these highly versatile armored vehicles could be a crucial step toward achieving greater operational flexibility and combat readiness.

Additionally, India is exploring the possibility of expanding its fleet of P-8I long-range maritime reconnaissance aircraft. These aircraft play a critical role in anti-submarine warfare, surveillance, and intelligence gathering. The Indian Navy previously acquired eight P-8I aircraft in 2009, and with increasing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, additional units could be procured to further strengthen India’s naval capabilities.

Disclaimer: This Image is taken from The Hawk.