The United States and India have reaffirmed their commitment to deepening collaboration in critical and emerging technologies. A meeting in New Delhi between U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, Indian National Security Advisor Ajit Doval, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar, and Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted advancements in the U.S.-India Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET), first launched in 2022.
Space Cooperation:
Both nations have advanced space technology partnerships, including a joint mission involving American and Indian astronauts at the International Space Station (Axiom-4) planned for this spring. Other initiatives include the launch of the NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite, which will map Earth’s surface to support climate research, and plans to deepen collaboration in space situational awareness, human spaceflight training, and lunar exploration.
Defence and Industrial Collaboration:
India’s acquisition of MQ-9B platforms and progress on co-production initiatives such as the potential manufacture of GE F414-INS6 jet engines and U.S. sonobuoys were discussed. The two nations celebrated the outcomes of the INDUS-X summit, which promotes innovation in defence technology through partnerships between startups and organizations in both countries.
Semiconductor Supply Chains:
Efforts to strengthen semiconductor supply chains included plans for a semiconductor fabrication plant in India through a U.S.-India partnership. The collaboration aims to bolster manufacturing capabilities for components such as gallium nitride and silicon carbide semiconductors.
Clean Energy and Minerals:
The two countries advanced discussions on deploying small modular nuclear reactors in India and signed a memorandum on critical minerals collaboration. Research on processing technologies for elements like lithium and titanium is underway, alongside a partnership between geological survey organizations.
AI and Quantum Technologies:
Frameworks for artificial intelligence (AI) collaboration and national security applications are being developed. Joint initiatives in quantum science include workshops on cryptography and hardware and visits by Indian experts to U.S. quantum institutions.
People-to-People Ties:
Both sides celebrated progress on establishing new consulates in Bengaluru, Boston, and Los Angeles. The two countries also emphasized initiatives to streamline visa processes and enhance cooperation in biotechnology and advanced materials research.
The meeting underscored mutual efforts to address challenges in global supply chains and technology protection while promoting secure, resilient, and sustainable advancements across various sectors. These initiatives reflect ongoing strides in U.S.-India cooperation, as outlined in a press release issued by the U.S. government.