US President Extends Military and Economic Cooperation with India During Modi Visit
On Thursday, February 13, US President Donald Trump offered to sell cutting-edge F-35 fighter jets to India, as he and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi pledged to boost bilateral trade. This move signals a deepening of relations between the two countries, which contrasts with the current US administration’s generally tough stance on international trade.
Modi, who is only the fourth world leader to visit the White House since Trump’s return to office, praised the US President as a “friend” and remarked that he was embracing Trump’s “Make America Great Again” philosophy.
In a rare moment of humility, Trump admitted that Modi was a “much tougher negotiator” than himself, highlighting the growing camaraderie between the two leaders. The United States has long viewed India as an essential partner in countering China’s rise, and Trump announced that military sales to India would be increased by billions of dollars starting this year. He also revealed plans to provide India with F-35 stealth fighters, joining an exclusive group of nations that includes NATO members, Israel, and Japan.
India’s current fleet relies heavily on ageing Russian-made jets and a few French Rafales. However, Pakistan expressed concerns over the deal, warning that it could destabilise the region and hinder peace efforts.
In addition to military cooperation, Trump and Modi discussed boosting economic ties, with a focus on investments in ports, railways, and undersea cables to create a trade route extending from India to Europe. Despite ongoing tensions over trade imbalances, Trump and Modi agreed to work on a “mutually beneficial trade agreement,” with emphasis on energy sectors like oil and gas.
Ahead of his visit, Modi made tariff concessions, including reducing duties on high-end motorcycles, which Trump welcomed, particularly as it benefits US manufacturer Harley-Davidson. In return, Trump promised to extradite to India a suspect involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, marking another significant step in strengthening bilateral ties.
While Modi and Trump share common political ground, including nationalist agendas and tough stances on dissent, their partnership also raises questions about the nature of their cooperation. Both leaders have shown a willingness to put national interests first, regardless of global criticisms.
Modi’s visit coincided with the presence of Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk, who met with the Indian Prime Minister, adding a layer of business discussions to the political proceedings. As the two countries continue to deepen their relationship, discussions on future collaboration, including the potential for a Quad summit later this year, remain in the spotlight.
