India's Defense Focus Strengthens Under Modi's Leadership

In this handout picture provided by the Indian Navy, INS Vikrant, India's first indigenously-built aircraft carrier, sails for sea trials from Kochi, India, Aug. 25, 2022. (Indian Navy via AP)

Following his victory in India's election, Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized his commitment to enhancing the country's military preparedness and influence in his third term. Modi's pledge to boost defense production and exports signals a strategic shift towards self-sufficiency in the defense sector, reducing India's reliance on arms imports.

Under Modi's leadership, defense cooperation with the United States has expanded significantly, particularly through the Quad security grouping involving Australia and Japan. This partnership not only bolsters India's defense credibility against powerful rivals but also provides the U.S. with a strong ally in countering China's assertive behavior in the Indo-Pacific region.

India's defense focus on China intensified following a deadly clash in the Galwan Valley in 2020, prompting a reevaluation of defense partnerships to counter China's growing influence in the region. China's close ties with India's neighbors and its efforts to enhance influence in the Indian Ocean have raised concerns in New Delhi, leading to increased competition in the region.

Shift towards self-sufficiency in defense sector to reduce arms imports.

Modi focuses on enhancing India's military preparedness and influence.

Expanded defense cooperation with the U.S. through the Quad security grouping.

Partnership with the U.S. bolsters India's defense credibility against powerful rivals.

Intensified defense focus on countering China's growing influence in the region.

Challenges in managing border issues and addressing opposition criticism.

While China has expressed willingness to work with India for regional peace and development, Modi's government faces challenges in managing border issues and addressing opposition criticism regarding transparency in defense matters. The opposition may pressure Modi on these fronts, particularly regarding the Ladakh situation.

Modi's military modernization program includes efforts to grow the private defense manufacturing sector and diversify defense procurement sources beyond Russian equipment. Initiatives such as the launch of India's first home-built aircraft carrier and collaborations with international partners like the U.S. demonstrate India's commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities.

As India seeks to enhance its defense ties with the U.S., agreements for joint production of fighter jet engines and armored vehicles highlight the deepening strategic partnership between the two countries. U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin praised the strong relationship with India, emphasizing the positive trajectory of bilateral defense cooperation.