New Delhi – In a major push for enhanced military collaboration, the United States has offered India its most advanced fighter aircraft, the F-35, as part of increasing defense sales. The announcement was made by U.S. President Donald Trump during a joint press conference with Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Key Highlights:
🔹 The U.S. plans to increase military sales to India by billions of dollars.
🔹 Discussions include joint development, production, and technology transfer.
🔹 A review of arms transfer regulations is set to streamline procurement.
🔹 Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) agreement to enhance cooperation.

Regulatory and Strategic Agreements
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri acknowledged that while formal procedures for military procurement are yet to start, the U.S. and India are actively reviewing their respective regulatory frameworks. The focus is on liberalizing arms transfer regulations, including the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), to improve defense trade and cooperation.

Expanding Defense Capabilities
President Trump reaffirmed the U.S. commitment, stating, “We are also paving the way to ultimately provide India with F-35 stealth fighters.” The leaders also pledged to accelerate collaboration in space, maritime, and undersea defense domains.

Prime Minister Modi emphasized the importance of the Indo-U.S. partnership, stating, “As strategic and trusted partners, we are moving towards joint development, joint production, and transfer of technology.”

The newly announced Defence Cooperation Framework will enhance interoperability, logistics, repair, and maintenance for the next decade. Additionally, joint procurement plans for Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missiles and Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles* have been initiated.

With these developments, India is set to boost its defense capabilities, ensuring stronger military ties with the United States.