NEW DELHI, Feb 11 (Alliance News): India is negotiating with the United States to acquire and co-produce combat vehicles and finalize a long-awaited fighter jet engine deal, sources said, as Prime Minister Narendra Modi prepares to meet US President Donald Trump this week.
India, the world’s largest arms importer, has traditionally relied on Russia for defense procurement.
However, amid growing strategic ties with Washington, Modi is looking to enhance defense and trade cooperation with the US.
During his two-day visit to the US, starting Wednesday, he is expected to discuss defense collaborations, technology partnerships, and economic ties with Trump.
Among the key defense deals under discussion are the co-production of Stryker combat vehicles—currently used by the US Army—and a contract for manufacturing GE-414 fighter jet engines in India for the Indian Air Force.
Officials from India’s Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd (HAL) are set to meet US counterparts and representatives from General Electric in the coming weeks to finalize the engine deal, which was initially agreed upon in 2023.
Additionally, India is considering acquiring several hundred Stryker vehicles with mounted anti-tank guided missile systems, with plans for later co-production through a state-run firm. The move aligns with Modi’s push for “Make in India” in defense manufacturing.
While it remains unclear if these deals will be formally announced during Modi’s meeting with Trump, trade concerns remain on the agenda.
Trump’s recent warning of a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports could impact Indian exporters, adding another layer to the high-level discussions.
