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The United States Senate recently approved the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the fiscal year 2020. This legislation plays a significant role in enhancing defence collaboration between India and the U.S. Similar to America’s NATO comrades, Israel, and South Korea, India is now recognized at the same level regarding its defence cooperation with the United States.
Authenticating Enhanced U.S.-India Defence Collaboration
The NDAA amendment fosters augmented U.S.-India defence alliance, particularly in the area of the Indian Ocean. Humanitarian assistance, counterterrorism, counter-piracy, and maritime security are vital areas that would benefit from the increased cooperation. The approval and eventual enforcement of this act promise to alleviate various challenges faced by these sectors.
The Legislative Process of the NDAA
The bill, after achieving approval from the Senate, now requires a similar consensus from the U.S. House of Representatives. Once both chambers of the U.S. Congress have passed the bill, it will be officially signed into law. The finality of this process will offer a strategic boost to India’s defence sector.
Paving the Way for Advanced Military Hardware Sales to India
An important implication of recognizing India at par with the U.S.’s NATO allies is the future possibility of heightened sales of high-end U.S. military hardware to India. This development could mark a significant milestone in strengthening India’s defence capabilities against potential threats and challenges.
| Year | Status Given to India by the U.S. |
|---|---|
| 2016 | Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA Tier-1) Status |
| 2016 | Designation as “Major Defence Partner” |
The Prior Status of India’s Defence Relation with the U.S.
Before this “upgrade”, the United States had already granted India Strategic Trade Authorization-1 (STA Tier-1) status. This designation promoted the exchange of advanced technology and reinforced the defence collaboration between these two nations. Furthermore, the U.S. also characterized India as a “Major Defence Partner” in 2016.
Implications of Non-NATO Ally Status
Becoming a major non-NATO ally or achieving an equivalent status does not necessarily mandate a mutual defence pact with the U.S., unlike what NATO allies have with the United States. Nevertheless, it does confer various military and financial benefits, which non-NATO countries would otherwise be unable to avail. This status further affirms India’s positioning on the international stage and strengthens its strategic ties with the U.S. regarding defence and security.
