In a major boost to India's defence industry and its strategic partnership with the US, the Biden administration has approved technology proposals that will enable India to manufacture Stryker combat vehicles within its borders. This landmark decision makes India the first global producer of these advanced armoured vehicles.
The announcement came alongside another significant development: a collaboration between the US and India to manufacture sonobuoys, crucial for tracking submarines. US company Ultra Maritime and Indian Public Sector Undertaking Bharat Dynamics Limited (BDL) will jointly produce these sonobuoys in India.
US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, during his visit to India, highlighted the significance of these agreements. He stated that the clearance of the technology proposal would establish India as the first global producer of Stryker combat vehicles, a leading producer of advanced munitions systems, and the first foreign producer of cutting-edge maritime systems.
The Indian Defence Ministry has proposed a three-phase plan for the Stryker project, starting with a limited off-the-shelf purchase through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) route, followed by joint production in India. This collaboration is expected to pave the way for the development of futuristic armoured vehicles in India, with the potential for export to third countries.
The Stryker, an 8-wheel-drive combat vehicle developed by General Dynamics Land Systems-Canada, boasts a Caterpillar C7 engine, a range of 483 kilometers, and a top speed of 100 km/h. It features enhanced protection with bolt-on ceramic armour and can withstand improvised explosive devices. Importantly, Strykers can be transported by Chinook helicopters, which are already in service with the Indian Air Force.
The Indian Army plans to deploy Strykers in high-altitude areas along the border with China, particularly in regions like Eastern Ladakh and Sikkim. These vehicles are intended to modernize the Army's mechanized infantry units, replacing the aging Russian-origin BMP-IIs with more capable and versatile platforms.
The Stryker comes in various configurations, including Infantry Carrier Vehicles, Mobile Gun Systems, medical evacuation vehicles, and reconnaissance vehicles, providing the Indian Army with a versatile and adaptable platform for a range of operational scenarios.
The Stryker has a proven track record, having been deployed in various conflicts since its introduction in 2002. Its ease of operation, transportability, and combat effectiveness have made it a valuable asset for the US Army and other forces around the world.
This agreement marks a significant step forward in Indo-US defence cooperation and strengthens India's domestic defence industry. By producing Stryker combat vehicles locally, India enhances its defence capabilities while also contributing to its strategic autonomy and self-reliance in defence technology.
