India: Ahead of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Washington, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan is set to arrive in Delhi on June 13 for a two-day visit. The purpose of Sullivan’s visit is to finalize details of the GE-414 engine deal, align the two countries’ stance on the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and discuss cooperation in countering cyber threats. These issues are expected to feature prominently in discussions between Prime Minister Modi and US President Joe Biden during their meeting on June 22. Prime Minister Modi’s visit to the US is scheduled for June 20.
US National Security Advisor’s Visit to India Strengthens Bilateral Ties and Explores Key Agreements
During his stay in Delhi, Sullivan, who has been instrumental in driving US-India ties, will hold meetings with Prime Minister Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. In their previous meeting on January 31, the two NSAs outlined an ambitious bilateral agenda under the initiative on critical and emerging technologies (iCET). This initiative aims to foster collaboration in quantum technologies, high-performance computing, resilient semiconductor supply chains, and defense industrial cooperation, with a focus on jet engines, munition technologies, and other hardware systems.
Notably, the US and Indian NSAs are actively working towards achieving a 100% transfer of technology for manufacturing GE-414 jet engines in India. Sullivan has been instrumental in overcoming resistance to the deal from the US State Department. These engines will power the Tejas Mark II fighters, which are expected to be the backbone of the Indian Air Force in the coming decade. To ensure smooth collaboration, efforts are being made to secure the involvement of all partners, including European countries, in the engine manufacturing process through collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Additionally, India is keen on manufacturing precision-guided munitions in partnership with US companies and exploring the acquisition of armed drones on a government-to-government basis. Discussions between Sullivan and Doval are also expected to cover the stance to be adopted on the ongoing Ukraine conflict and strategies to address the Chinese challenge in the Indo-Pacific region.
With the US offering assistance to India in countering cyber threats, particularly those emanating from China, the two NSAs will delve into cybersecurity challenges and explore avenues for technology sharing to counter adversarial hackers.
Sullivan’s visit comes shortly after US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s visit to India and India’s foreign secretary’s participation in the first strategic trade dialogue on June 5.
The visit by US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan underscores the commitment of both countries to strengthening bilateral ties, advancing defense cooperation, and addressing critical regional challenges.
During his visit to Delhi, US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan will engage in crucial discussions and meetings aimed at deepening bilateral ties between the United States and India. Sullivan’s visit comes as both nations seek to enhance cooperation on various fronts, including defense, technology, and addressing regional challenges.
US NSA’s Momentous Arrival in India on June 13 Ushers in Golden Era of Unprecedented Bilateral Ties to New Heights
One of the key areas of focus during Sullivan’s visit will be the finalization of details regarding the GE-414 engine deal. This agreement holds significance as it involves the transfer of technology for manufacturing jet engines in India. The GE-414 engines will be utilized to power the Tejas Mark II fighters, which are set to play a pivotal role in the Indian Air Force‘s operations in the coming years. Efforts are underway to ensure the participation of all relevant partners, including European countries, in the engine manufacturing process, in collaboration with Hindustan Aeronautics Limited.
Furthermore, discussions between Sullivan and Indian officials will also cover the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It is crucial for both countries to align their positions on this matter to promote regional stability and peace. Additionally, the two sides will address the evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region, particularly in light of China’s assertive actions. Cooperation in countering cyber threats, including the sharing of technologies, will also feature prominently in the discussions. The aim is to enhance the capabilities of both nations in safeguarding critical infrastructure and addressing cybersecurity risks.
During his stay in Delhi, Sullivan is scheduled to meet Prime Minister Narendra Modi, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. These meetings will provide an opportunity to strengthen the personal rapport between the leaders and facilitate in-depth discussions on important strategic issues. Sullivan has been a key driver in cementing ties between the United States and India, and his visit underscores the commitment of both countries to fostering a strong partnership based on shared interests and values.
The timing of Sullivan’s visit is significant, as it precedes Prime Minister Modi’s state visit to Washington. The discussions held during Sullivan’s visit will help shape the agenda for the upcoming meeting between Prime Minister US and US President Joe Biden on June 22. Both leaders will have the opportunity to further deepen cooperation and explore avenues for collaboration in various sectors, such as defense, trade, and technology.
