Source : IgMp Bureau
United States to offer B-21 Raider Stealth Bomber to India, also expresses interests for joint defence programs
The domain of international defense collaboration is currently experiencing a paradigm shift, characterized by the United States demonstrating a profound interest in establishing strategic partnerships with India for the advancement of future weapons programs. This burgeoning alliance, positioned to elevate the bilateral relationship between the two nations, underscores the alignment of their strategic and defense objectives.
The most recent manifestation of this collaborative endeavor finds its expression in the co-development of Launched Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs). These UAVs, meticulously designed for surveillance missions and distinguished by their capability for air recovery after the successful completion of mission objectives, symbolize an auspicious inaugural step toward the fortification of joint defense initiatives.
US expresses interest to jointly develop FLRAA and Rapid Dragon
Among the avenues under exploration, one of the noteworthy discussions is centered on the Future Long Range Assault Aircraft (FLRAA) program of the United States Army. The FLRAA program seeks to supplant thousands of Black Hawk and Apache helicopters, thereby equipping the United States Army with cutting-edge capabilities. Officials from the Pentagon have engaged in dialogues with their Indian Army counterparts to investigate the prospect of India’s participation as a strategic or co-development partner in this consequential undertaking.
Expanding the purview beyond land forces, the Indian Air Force (IAF) has evinced keen interest in a program pursued by the United States Air Force. This program entails the conversion of transport aircraft, such as the C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster III, into dual-purpose missile platforms. These aircraft would be outfitted with “smart pallets” housing long-range cruise missiles and other munitions. These smart pallets would provide precise navigation and targeting data to the onboard missiles, thereby streamlining deployment. The involvement of the IAF in this initiative, given its operation of both the C-130J Super Hercules and C-17 Globemaster III in its fleet, underscores a shared enthusiasm for cutting-edge defense capabilities.
B-21 Raider for India?
Beyond the realm of specific programs, the burgeoning rapport between the two nations has engendered discussions regarding the potential integration of India into the United States’ latest nuclear stealth bomber, the B-21 Raider. This development aligns with the United States’ aspiration to furnish technologically advanced defense solutions to steadfast allies, including India, Japan, and Australia. With a vigilant eye cast upon potential regional threats, including reports of China’s endeavors to develop its nuclear stealth bomber, India and the United States are meticulously exploring avenues to fortify their defense mechanisms and enhance security cooperation.
