India, US negotiating UAV co-development program, says Pentagon official

The US and India are negotiating a co-development programme for the air-launched unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV), a top Pentagon official said Tuesday.

File photo used for representational purpose.
File photo used for representational purpose.

“I would like to highlight a very exciting project we are currently negotiating -- air-launched unmanned aerial vehicle or UAV will be a co-development programme between the US Air Force Research Labs, the Indian Air Force, India's Defense Research and Development Organisation, and … an Indian startup company," said Ellen M Lord, Under Secretary of Defence for Acquisition and Sustainment.

Addressing the India Idea’s Summit organised by the US-India Business Council, the top Pentagon official said that the US Air Force research labs have signed a cooperative research and development agreement with the Indian startup to support the development of the air-launched UAV.

Also check these Vehicles

Find more Cars
Hcd India Nps Cargo (HT Auto photo)
₹54.5 - 58.5 **Ex-showroom price
Add to compare
Check latest offers
Benling India Benling Aura (HT Auto photo)
₹73 **Ex-showroom price
Add to compare
Check latest offers
Benling India Benling Kriti (HT Auto photo)
₹56.94 - 66.12 **Ex-showroom price
Add to compare
Check latest offers
Benling India Benling Falcon (HT Auto photo)
₹62.2 - 71.25 **Ex-showroom price
Add to compare
Check latest offers
Ujaas Energy Ujaas Espa Li (HT Auto photo)
₹54.88 - 66.02 **Ex-showroom price
Add to compare
Check latest offers

Also Read : Flying car PAL-V to be built in Gujarat, MoU inked with Dutch firm)

The Pentagon’s point person for the ambitious US-India Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI), Lord said that they are planning to hold the next DTTI group meeting the week of September 14 and the second meeting of the DTTI industrial collaboration forum the week before.

Often described as the Pentagon's chief weapons buyer, Lord said that US-India defence cooperation has made great strides in the last few years.

This cooperation has led to closer relationships across the two governments, and it has also increased stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Noting that US Defense sales to India have grown exponentially over the last 10 years, she said the US is striving to become India's first choice in defence solutions.

The last year has seen many firsts in DTTI, she said adding that the first project agreement for co-development is in negotiation.

The first industrial cooperation forum was held, she said. She also announced the release of industrial guidance for participation with DTTI.

“Industrial cooperation is a key focus area for the future of defence collaboration, and we think that this industry guidance will increase industrial collaboration within the DDTI framework," she said.

"The United States welcomes any partnership that enhances US national security objectives, decreases defence procurement costs and leads to greater supply chain stability," Lord said.

Noting that the US government reviewed and commented on India's defence procurement procedure or DPP, Lord said they were encouraged to see procedures for loans and leases added.

“The United States is aware that many countries including India use offset in defence sales. The US government will not take part in any negotiation concerning offsets between industry and a foreign government. We encourage all governments to ensure that offset processes are transparent and applied equally to all competitors," Lord said.

First Published Date: 22 Jul 2020, 08:29 AM IST
Recommended for you
View all
NEXT ARTICLE BEGINS
Shopping Bag Shop Now
55% OFF
SOFTSPUN Microfiber Cloth - 4 pcs - 40x40 cms - 340 GSM Grey- Thick Lint & Streak-Free Multipurpose Cloths - Automotive Microfibre Towels for Car Bike Cleaning Polishing Washing & Detailing…
Rs. 269 Rs. 604
19% OFF
Involve Your Senses One Musk Organic Car Perfume, Involve Your Senses Strong Fiber Air Freshener to Freshen'up Your Car - IONE01-40 g,Car Accessories interior car perfumes and fresheners
Rs. 324 Rs. 399
73% OFF
pTron Bullet Pro 36W PD Quick Charger, 3 Port Fast Car Charger Adapter - Compatible with All Smartphones & Tablets (Black)
Rs. 349 Rs. 1,299
9% OFF
ShineXPro Microfiber Car Cleaning Cloth - OG Soft 500 GSM Extra Large (35x75 CM) Microfiber Cloth for Car and Bike - Suede Edging for Scratchless Drying and Detailing (Pack of 2)
Rs. 498 Rs. 549

Please provide your details to get Personalized Offers on

Choose city
+91 | Choose city
Choose city
Choose city
By clicking "View Offers" you Agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy

Dear Name

Please verify your mobile number.

+91 | Choose city