The United States of America has recently urged its allies and partners, with a specific emphasis on India, to halt transactions with Russia. The recirculation of this stance raises the potential for sanctions under the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), a law that could significantly impact international relations.
The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA)
Enacted by the United States, CAATSA enforces penalties on Iran, North Korea, and Russia. More specifically, it imposes sanctions on countries that undertake substantial transactions with Russia’s defense and intelligence sectors. This Act might have global implications, directly affecting countries like India that engage in defense deals with Russia.
US Perspective on CAATSA and India
The United States has repeated its position on CAATSA concerning India’s proposed jet fighter deal with Russia. Worth an estimated Rs. 18,148 crore, India’s Defense Acquisition Council recently gave approval for the procurement of 21 MiG-29 fighter jets, an upgrade for 59 existing aircraft, and the acquisition of 12 Su-30 MKI aircraft for the Indian Air Force (IAF). These purchases could risk triggering CAATSA sanctions, especially considering India’s purchase of the S-400 Triumf missile defense system from Russia.
This issue has precedent, with the USA suspending Turkey from its F-35 aircraft programme and preventing it from purchasing the aircraft after Turkey bought the S-400 from Russia. However, while the situation is similar, CAATSA was not invoked in this instance.
India as a Major Defence Partner of the USA
In 2016, the United States identified India as a Major Defence Partner, a status that enables India to acquire more advanced and sensitive technologies from the United States, similar to its closest allies and partners.
Issues with Purchases from Adversaries
The United States has expressed concern that acquisitions of significant systems by countries like India could expose or threaten its own technologies and platforms. It has also suggested that Turkey’s purchase of the S-400 missile system from Russia threatens its F-35 aircraft system.
Waiver Criteria under CAATSA
As of 2018, the United States President has the authority to waive CAATSA sanctions on a case-by-case basis. However, it is important to note that India has been repeatedly advised not to assume that it will receive such a waiver.
About the S-400 Triumf Missile Defense System
The S-400 Triumf missile defense system is considered Russia’s most advanced long-range surface-to-air missile defense system. China was the first foreign buyer, finalizing a government-to-government deal with Russia in 2014 for the system.
A Delicate Balancing Act for India
India’s defense procurement has become increasingly important amid its ongoing border clashes with China along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). While Russia is a dependable defense partner of India, there is a need to balance relations with both Russia and the USA to protect national interests.
