Noida, February 15, 2025– Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi praised the India-US defence agreements signed following Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit to the United States. He highlighted that the upcoming 10-year defence framework (2025-2035) will significantly boost India’s defence production and self-reliance.
Strengthening Defence Ties
Speaking at the annual reclaiming ceremony in Noida, General Dwivedi emphasized the Indian Army’s role in nation-building, beyond just ensuring security.
“We have received very good news that a 10-year plan will be laid out. Joint production will greatly benefit defence manufacturing, the Indian Army, and promote self-reliance,” he said.
India and the US have agreed to negotiate and finalize this long-term framework, which will streamline defence procurement between the two nations.
Key Features of the Defence Framework
The US-India Major Defence Partnership in the 21st Century aims to enhance defence trade between both countries. It will also review arms transfer regulations, including ITAR (International Traffic in Arms Regulations), to ensure smoother technology sharing. The agreement will facilitate joint production of critical defence equipment and launch a Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) agreement for seamless defence goods and services exchange.
New Defence Deals and Procurement
Under the US-India COMPACT for the 21st Century initiative, both nations have agreed to co-produce Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and Stryker infantry combat vehicles. The framework will also finalize the purchase of six additional P-8I Maritime Patrol aircraft, strengthening India’s naval capabilities in the Indian Ocean Region. Additionally, the US has committed to expanding defence sales to India, paving the way for F-35 stealth fighter aircraft.
F-35 and Aero India 2025
US President Donald Trump announced plans to increase defence sales to India by billions of dollars. He confirmed that the Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II—the world’s most advanced 5th-generation stealth fighter—will be provided to India in the future.
The F-35 was showcased at Aero India 2025, Asia’s largest aerospace and defence exhibition, held from February 10 to 14 at Yelahanka Air Force Station, Bengaluru.
This growing military collaboration is expected to strengthen India’s defence capabilities, enhance strategic ties, and boost indigenous production through joint ventures.
