On February 14, President Trump announced plans for providing F-35 fighters to India, causing Pakistan to voice concerns about regional security and military balance. During discussions of defense initiatives, India and the US emphasized their commitment to strengthening military cooperation, including the upcoming “Tiger Triumph” exercise. Trump also confirmed the extradition of a suspect in the 2008 Mumbai attacks, illustrating deeper US-India collaboration against terrorism.
On February 14, the US President Donald Trump announced plans for the potential transfer of F-35 stealth fighters to India, prompting Pakistan to express significant concern regarding the impact this could have on regional military balance. Pakistan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs indicated that such military advancements could disrupt strategic stability in South Asia and impede efforts for enduring peace. Consequently, Pakistan urged its international partners to consider a comprehensive view of regional security matters, warning against biased positions that overlook ground realities.
During a joint press conference with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Trump stated that military sales to India would increase significantly this year, alongside plans to facilitate the delivery of F-35 fighters. Responding to inquiries about India’s commitment to the F-35 acquisition, Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri clarified that while discussions are ongoing, formal procurement processes have yet to commence, keeping the F-35 consideration at a proposal stage for now.
India and the US have recently introduced the Autonomous Systems Industry Alliance (ASIA), aimed at enhancing collaboration in defense technologies, particularly in autonomous systems and underwater domain awareness. The discussions also highlighted the expansion of military cooperation across various areas, including air and space. This collaboration encompasses training exercises and logistics improvements to support military deployments, especially in the Indo-Pacific region.
The forthcoming “Tiger Triumph” tri-service exercise, anticipated to be more complex than its predecessors, was also underscored as a significant initiative in the military partnership under the US-India COMPACT for the 21st Century framework. Additionally, Trump announced the extradition of Tahawwur Rana, a key figure involved in the 2008 Mumbai terror attacks, stating he would face justice in India.
Tahawwur Hussain Rana, a Pakistani businessman, has been implicated in the 26/11 attacks, collaborating with co-conspirators like David Headley. This underlined the strengthening US-India ties, particularly concerning security and counter-terrorism efforts.
The announcement of potential F-35 transfers to India by the US has raised alarms in Pakistan, emphasizing concerns over military imbalances in the region. The dialogue surrounding increased military cooperation between India and the US highlights an evolving partnership focused on strategic defense initiatives. Furthermore, the extradition of a key Mumbai attack figure signifies the growing commitment between the two nations to combat terrorism and enhance regional security.
Original Source: www.aninews.in
