Washington: In a Congressional hearing on defense intelligence countering China, Lt. Gen. Jeffrey Kruse, Director of the Defense Intelligence Agency, lauded India’s strides in strengthening its military capabilities to counterbalance China, emphasizing the reduction of dependence on Russian-origin equipment.
Kruse highlighted India’s ascent as a global leader in 2023, citing its hosting of the Group of 20 economic summit and proactive stance against People’s Republic of China (PRC) activities in the Indo-Pacific region. He underscored India’s deepening partnerships in the Indo-Pacific, particularly with nations like the Philippines, through defense sales, training, and cooperation initiatives. Additionally, he emphasized India’s enhanced collaboration with the United States, Australia, France, and Japan in the region.
India’s efforts to modernize its military capabilities were spotlighted by Kruse, noting initiatives undertaken in 2023 to upgrade armed forces and diminish reliance on Russian-origin equipment. These initiatives included sea trials for domestically produced aircraft carriers and negotiations with Western countries for critical defense technologies transfer.
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Kruse’s remarks underscored India’s strategic significance in the Indo-Pacific and its evolving role as a pivotal player in shaping regional security dynamics amidst escalating competition with China.
Looking ahead to 2024, Kruse anticipated India’s focus on securing national parliamentary elections, sustaining economic growth, and advancing its ‘Make in India’ initiative as part of its military modernization strategy aimed at countering Beijing.
Tensions persist between India and China following the 2020 Galwan clash, with disputes remaining unresolved in eastern Ladakh despite numerous talks. Both sides maintain substantial troop presence and continue to bolster military infrastructure near the border.
India’s stance on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine remains neutral, with Russia remaining its primary defense partner despite New Delhi’s intent to diversify defense acquisition partnerships.
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Regarding Pakistan, Kruse highlighted its pursuit of international support, including engagement with the UN Security Council, to address the Kashmir dispute. Despite an uneasy ceasefire along the Line of Control since February 2021, Pakistan sustains nuclear modernization efforts amid economic challenges, alongside a rise in terrorist violence.
Kruse emphasized that while India’s defense policy is influenced by its contentious relationship with Pakistan, cross-border violence has decreased since the ceasefire recommitment in February 2021. He noted Pakistan’s efforts to modernize its nuclear arsenal and enhance nuclear security, including the successful testing of the Ababeel medium-range ballistic missile in October.
