Indo US strategic partnership in the 21st century

Abstract

The research titled "Indo-US Strategic Partnership in the 21st Century" provides an in-depth analysis of the Indo-US strategic partnership as it has evolved in the post-Cold War period. It primarily examines the context in which this partnership developed, the major areas of cooperation, its role in India's efforts to balance China, and the significant challenges it currently faces. Through this analysis, the study offers a nuanced understanding of how this partnership has shaped the geopolitical landscape and continues to influence global security dynamics. The India-US strategic partnership has evolved in response to the shifting global and domestic priorities of both nations. Following the disintegration of the Soviet Union, India pivoted from strict non-alignment to pro-Western policies, seeking resources for economic and military growth. Meanwhile, the United States, confronted with non-traditional security threats such as terrorism and climate change, recognized India as a vital partner in addressing these challenges. Shared concerns over China's rise, the Indo-US civil nuclear deal, India's economic liberalization, and a post-Cold War recalibration of US foreign policy have been key factors in fostering this partnership. This mutual collaboration aims to address both regional and global security challenges while also enhancing economic and strategic ties. One of the key areas of growth within the India-US strategic partnership is defence and military cooperation, which has strengthened considerably since the post-Cold War era. This expanding collaboration, particularly under the NDA government, encompasses increased defence trade, joint military exercises, and the signing of foundational defence agreements. Notable advancements in defence trade include India’s purchase of advanced US military equipment, such as the P-81 aircraft and C-17 Globemaster, while joint military exercises like Malabar, Yudh Abhyas, and Cope India have improved interoperability between their armed forces. The signing of foundational agreements has further elevated the partnership, enhancing strategic cooperation and operational compatibility between their military forces. These developments underscore the deepening strategic ties between India and the US, particularly as the global security environment continues to evolve. In addition to defence cooperation, Indo-US counter-terrorism collaboration has also evolved significantly since the 9/11 attacks. India’s military support in Afghanistan bolstered US confidence in its partnership with India, and this cooperation grew stronger after the Mumbai attacks. This led to enhanced intelligence sharing, joint training, and law enforcement collaboration. Key mechanisms like the Joint Counter Terrorism Working Group, established in 2000, have enabled consistent dialogue and information exchange. Moreover, the cooperation expanded into cybersecurity, with both countries forming the Cyber Security Forum in 2001, signing the 2011 Cyber Security Agreement, and creating the 2016 Framework for Cyber Space Cooperation. These efforts have strengthened both nations' capacities to protect critical infrastructure and combat terrorism. The strategic partnership has also contributed significantly to India’s ability to counter China’s growing influence in the Indian Ocean and along its border. Through this partnership, India has enhanced its naval capabilities, with joint exercises like Malabar and advanced equipment like the P8I Poseidon aircraft. Diplomatic support has been another key aspect, particularly in recognizing and addressing the challenges posed by China. Foundational agreements such as CISMOA, BECA, and LEMOA have facilitated military cooperation, allowing India to access US military bases, advanced weaponry, and critical geospatial data. Additionally, defense acquisitions like the M777 howitzers, C130J aircraft, and Apache helicopters have modernized India’s military, further strengthening its strategic position in the Indo-Pacific and improving its ability to respond to Chinese actions. However, despite these advancements, India and the US face several challenges that strain their strategic partnership, which must be addressed for the partnership to thrive in the evolving Asia-Pacific order. First, India's underperformance in defence, primarily due to a lack of political will for reform, has hindered its ability to meet the expectations of the US. Second, insufficient interoperability between their armed forces, caused by low-frequency joint exercises, complicates cooperation. Third, India’s pursuit of strategic autonomy stands in conflict with US expectations, as India resists becoming a subordinate ally. Additionally, India’s longstanding defence ties with Russia, particularly its reliance on Russian weapons, poses challenges in terms of compatibility and security concerns for the US. Lastly, the Pakistan factor continues to strain the partnership, with the US needing to maintain ties with Pakistan, which conflicts with India’s interests, particularly in defence and counter-terrorism cooperation. Addressing these challenges is crucial to ensure the continued success of the partnership.