After securing key agreements in France, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has arrived in the United States. He is set to meet President Donald Trump for the first time since Trump’s dramatic return to the White House for a second term.

Key Discussion Points

PM Modi has several topics to address with Trump. His primary concern is the tariffs the US has imposed on other nations. However, India has so far avoided new tariffs, which is a relief for Modi. Another major issue is illegal Indian immigration, which is expected to be part of the discussions. Despite these concerns, defense cooperation remains the main focus of Modi’s visit. He aims to secure multiple defense deals to strengthen India’s military capabilities.

Stryker Infantry Combat Vehicles

At the top of Modi’s defense wishlist is the Stryker infantry combat vehicle. India is interested in co-producing these advanced armored vehicles with General Dynamics, the manufacturer. The Indian Army tested these vehicles between September and October. The Stryker is a highly mobile, armored vehicle designed for combat and troop transport. It has 18 variants, some used for carrying soldiers and others equipped with weapons. These vehicles were first deployed by the US Army in Iraq in 2003. Sources indicate India will procure a few hundred Strykers in two stages. Initially, a small number will be imported directly. Later, the bulk of them will be manufactured in India, likely by Bharat Earth Movers Limited (BEML), with certain modifications.

P-8 Military Patrol Aircraft

India is also looking to acquire six more P-8 maritime patrol aircraft from the US. Manufactured by Boeing, these aircraft are crucial for anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface warfare, and intelligence gathering. The Indian Navy had previously requested these aircraft, but the deal was delayed. Given China’s growing presence in the Indian Ocean, these aircraft have become essential for India’s security. Currently, India operates 12 P-8s. The country bought eight in 2009 for $2.2 billion and added four more in 2016.

F-414 Jet Engines

Another key item on Modi’s list is the co-production of General Electric’s F-414-INS6 jet engines. These engines will power India’s Tejas Mark-II fighter jets and are valued at approximately $1.5 billion. A major aspect of this deal is technology transfer. Under the agreement, India will receive 80% of the technology required for producing engine parts. This move aligns with India’s goal of co-developing military equipment rather than just purchasing finished products.

MQ-9B Drones

PM Modi is also pushing for faster delivery of the MQ-9B drones. Last October, India signed a deal with the US to acquire 31 of these unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for Rs 32,000 crore. The agreement states that India will receive these drones by 2029. Manufactured by General Atomics, the MQ-9B drones enhance India’s surveillance capabilities. These high-altitude drones can operate at 50,000 feet and stay airborne for extended periods. Military experts believe these drones will allow India to conduct remote-controlled operations, strike terrorist hideouts, and monitor borders with China.

MH-60R Seahawk Helicopters

PM Modi is also expected to discuss the timely arrival of the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters. In December, the US approved the sale of these helicopters to India for $1.17 billion. The MH-60R, also known as ‘Romeo,’ is a multi-mission naval helicopter built by Lockheed Martin. It plays a crucial role in anti-submarine and anti-surface warfare. Designed for operations from ships and aircraft carriers, it is the US Navy’s primary weapon for open-ocean combat. These helicopters can detect enemy submarines and ships. They are also equipped with anti-surface warfare technology, allowing them to engage enemy vessels effectively.

Strengthening India-US Defense Ties

PM Modi’s visit comes at a time when President Trump is encouraging India to buy more US-made weapons. Since taking office in January, Trump has emphasized increasing military sales to India. Since 2008, India has purchased over $20 billion worth of US defense equipment. However, the US is pushing India to reduce its dependence on Russia. According to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), Russia was India’s top arms supplier between 2019 and 2023. Washington’s strategy appears to be nudging India further away from Russian defense deals. PM Modi’s visit to the US marks an important step in strengthening India’s defense capabilities. With deals covering combat vehicles, aircraft, drones, and helicopters, India is set to enhance its military power. The discussions with President Trump will shape future defense cooperation and influence India’s strategic direction in global military partnerships.