India and the US have signed the Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) agreement, making it easier for both nations to procure defense equipment and services from each other. The agreement was finalized during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s meeting with US President Donald Trump in Washington, D.C., focusing on strengthening strategic defense ties, military technology exchange, and joint production of defense equipment.
COMPACT Agreement for Defense Cooperation
A significant milestone in defense collaboration is the announcement of COMPACT (Catalyzing Opportunities for Military Partnership, Accelerated Commerce & Technology for the 21st Century). Experts believe this will help India acquire advanced next-generation weaponry. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, a comprehensive 10-year defense cooperation agreement will be signed this year, covering technology, trade, and industrial collaboration. The US has also agreed to supply India with F-35 fighter jets as part of enhanced military trade.
Trump Praises Modi’s Negotiation Skills
During a joint press conference, Trump praised Modi as a tough negotiator, stating, “He is a much tougher negotiator than me and a much better one. There is no contest.” The statement came after an hour-long discussion between the two leaders. Trump also expressed his personal admiration for Modi and recalled welcoming him earlier by saying, “I missed you a lot.”
Strengthening Bilateral Ties
At the White House meeting, Modi emphasized strengthening India-US relations through joint efforts for progress. Trump announced plans for the largest-ever trade corridor between India, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe. He also confirmed that the US would extradite Mumbai attack suspect Tahawwur Rana to India and increase petroleum exports to the country.
Expanding Trade and Security Cooperation
Modi highlighted plans to double India-US trade to $500 billion by the end of the decade. He also stated that counterterrorism efforts with the US would intensify and announced the opening of a new Indian consulate in Boston. Foreign Minister S. Jaishankar and National Security Advisor Ajit Doval accompanied Modi for the White House discussions.
