First high-level visit by Biden administration: US defence secy plans India trip this month

This will be the first Cabinet-rank official visit from the US, since the Biden administration assumed office on January 20.

Within days of being confirmed, Austin had called up Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on January 27 and had emphasised Pentagon’s commitment to the US-India Major Defence Partnership, observing that it is built upon “shared values” and a “common interest in ensuring the Indo-Pacific region remains free and open”.

This was a clear signal to counter China’s proactive and assertive actions in the Indo-Pacific, which has brought Indian and American militaries and political establishments closer in the last few years.

In fact, Austin’s visit, once confirmed, will be close on the heels of the first Quad meeting of the leaders — President Biden, Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Japan’s PM Yoshihide Suga and Australian PM Scott Morrison — on March 12, sources said.

US Defence Secretary Lloyd J Austin

In the January 27 call to Singh, Austin had noted the “great strides” made in the US-India defence relationship, and had pledged to work collaboratively with the Defence Minister to sustain progress.

Interactions between India and the US defence establishments have been quite robust in recent weeks.

On March 2, General Kenneth Wilsbach, Commander of Pacific Air Forces, met IAF chief Air Chief Marshal RKS Bhadauria along with his delegation at the Air Headquarters and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral ties.

On February 22-24, senior Army officers of the two countries discussed ways to enhance defence cooperation during the 24th edition of the Executive Steering Group (ESG) meeting.

At the Aero India early February, the American B-1B Lancer heavy bomber was flown along with the Made in India Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) Tejas.

Exercises between Indian and US armies (Yudh Abhyas), and air forces (Desert Flag in the UAE) have also taken place.