India, US sign key Defence Supply
Context:
Recently, the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh arrived in Washington DC for a four-day official visit. During his stay, India and the US signed two important agreements: a non-binding Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and a Memorandum of Agreement on the Assignment of Liaison Officers.
About Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA):
- Purpose: SOSA is Non -Binding agreement providing reciprocal priority support for defence-related goods and services between India and the U.S., ensuring effective management of supply chain disruptions and maintaining defence capabilities.
Strategic Implications
- Key Features:
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- Defense Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS): The U.S. will offer assurances under DPAS to ensure timely availability of necessary industrial resources.
- Indian Industry Participation: Indian defence firms agree to prioritise U.S. orders, enhancing their credibility and opening opportunities for collaboration and exports.
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- The Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) will facilitate priority supplies for Indian companies from the U.S. and boost defence industry cooperation. This is particularly significant as the U.S. becomes a major purchaser of India’s expanding defence exports.
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About Assignment of Liaison Officers:
- Purpose of the MoA:The Memorandum of Agreement (MoA) facilitates the assignment of military liaison officers from each country to the other’s military establishments, aiming to improve communication, coordination, and collaboration between the armed forces of India and the U.S.
- India will post a naval officer at the U.S. military headquarters in Bahrain, while the U.S. will assign a military officer to the Indian armed forces.
- Enhanced Communication: Improves real-time communication,enhanced interoperability and operational coordination, enabling quicker decision-making.
- Support for Joint Operations: Facilitates planning and execution of joint military exercises and operations, fostering a more integrated defence partnership.
