Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to meet with United States President Joe Biden at the White House to discuss deepening defense cooperation between the two countries.A key focus of their discussions will be joint production of fighter jet engines and expanding the number of repair bases for United States naval vessels in India.India, which currently sources about half of its arms from Russia, has faced delays in imports due to Russias involvement in Ukraine.With ongoing border disputes with China, India aims to enhance its defense ties with the United States and reduce its reliance on Russia.Biden and Modi strengthen Defense cooperation.
(Photo Internet reproduction)Modi arrived in New York on Tuesday and a joint press conference will follow his meeting with Biden.As part of the discussions, General Electrics aerospace unit and Hindustan Aeronautics, Indias state-owned aerospace and defense company, have signed a memorandum of understanding.The agreement pertains to the manufacturing of engines for Indias indigenous Tejas fighter jet, including the transfer of technology.The engines will be produced within India.Additionally, both leaders will reaffirm their commitment to the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue, or Quad, a strategic security framework that also involves Japan and Australia.Economic topics, such as semiconductor supply networks, as well as concerns over Chinas growing influence in the Indo-Pacific region, are expected to be addressed.The United States sees India, representing emerging and developing nations of the Global South, as a crucial partner in countering what it perceives as authoritarian regimes like China and Russia.While Modi has previously visited the United States as prime minister, this visit marks his first reception as a state guest in Washington.Indias arms procurement from Russia has faced delays due to the Ukraine conflict.The United States aims to leverage military assistance to create a rift in India-Russia relations, while India seeks to diversify its sources of procurement.These circumstances pave the way for a potential agreement between the two nations.