In a significant step towards bolstering their defence partnership, India and the United States recently inked two crucial agreements: the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on the Assignment of Liaison Officers.
These agreements were finalized during Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh's recent visit to the USA, where both countries also agreed to accelerate collaborative defence production projects as outlined in the 2023 US-India Roadmap for Defence Industrial Cooperation.
What is SOSA?
The Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA) establishes a framework for reciprocal priority support between India and the US for goods and services critical for national defence.It aims to ensure supply chain resilience, especially during unexpected disruptions. This arrangement, however, operates on goodwill and is not legally binding.
While Indian companies participating in SOSA will endeavor to prioritize US orders, the US will reciprocate by providing assurances under its Defence Priorities and Allocations System (DPAS). Notably, India is the 18th country to become a SOSA partner with the US.
What is an RDP Agreement?
The Reciprocal Defence Procurement (RDP) Agreement, currently under discussion, is designed to streamline defence procurement between the US and its allies.This legally binding agreement promotes equipment standardization and interoperability. By potentially waiving certain domestic procurement restrictions, like India's "Make in India" initiative, RDP could facilitate greater US investment in Indian defence manufacturing.
SOSA versus RDP
While both SOSA and RDP seek to deepen Indo-US defence ties, they differ in their mechanisms and scope. SOSA primarily focuses on maintaining a reliable supply chain during contingencies.On the other hand, the legally binding RDP aims to stimulate broader collaboration in defence manufacturing and technology through prioritized procurement.
MoU on Liaison Officers
This MoU solidifies an earlier decision to enhance information sharing and cooperation between the two militaries. It will allow Indian armed forces officers to be stationed at key US strategic commands. India's initial Liaison Officer will be posted at the US Special Operations Command headquarters in Florida.Conclusion
These recent agreements, along with ongoing collaborative projects, signify a growing strategic alignment between India and the US in the defence sector.The foundation for this enhanced cooperation was laid in the 2013 Joint US-India Declaration on Defence Cooperation and the 2015 Framework for the US-India Defence Relationship, highlighting the nations' shared vision for a strong and enduring defence partnership.
