India and the United States are forging ahead with their strategic partnership in critical and emerging technologies, as evidenced by the second meeting of the India-US Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technology (iCET). This significant meeting, chaired by Indian National Security Advisor (NSA) Ajit Doval and US National Security Advisor (APNSA) Jake Sullivan, took place in New Delhi, marking a pivotal moment in the collaboration between the two nations.
Since the inception of iCET in January 2023, India and the United States have made notable progress in various key technology sectors. These include space, semiconductors, advanced telecommunications, artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, biotechnology, and clean energy.
According to a joint statement issued by Ministry of External Affairs on Monday (June 17, 2024) the two countries are committed to ensuring that technology is developed and utilized in a way that aligns with democratic values and respects universal human rights. The partnership is seen as crucial for the future security and prosperity of the Indo-Pacific region.
During this second iCET meeting, Doval and Sullivan outlined their vision for the next phase of their strategic technology partnership. They emphasized the importance of co-production, co-development, and research and development (R&D) to remain at the forefront of innovation. They also highlighted the need for collaboration with like-minded nations to provide secure, reliable, and cost-effective technology solutions globally.
A key highlight of the meeting was the inaugural India-US-ROK Trilateral Technology Dialogue held in Seoul in March, and ongoing cooperation with Australia and Japan through the Quad. These efforts underscore the commitment to expanding strategic cooperation in the technology sector.
Doval and Sullivan stressed the importance of protecting sensitive and dual-use technologies from potential adversaries. They resolved to address longstanding barriers to bilateral strategic trade and technology cooperation, particularly in the commercial and civil space sectors. The Strategic Trade Dialogue, which convened in June in Washington, D.C., and an iCET inter-sessional review meeting held in New Delhi, have been instrumental in these efforts.
An industry roundtable during the iCET meeting brought together CEOs and thought leaders from both countries. This gathering aimed to mobilize private sector investment and partnerships across strategic technology sectors, further solidifying the collaborative spirit between India and the US.
Several key areas of focus were identified during the meeting:
Bridging Innovation Ecosystems
The two nations are unlocking over US$90 million in government funding over the next five years for the India-US Global Challenges Institute, according to the joint statement. This institute will foster high-impact university and research partnerships in areas such as semiconductor technology, sustainable agriculture, clean energy, health equity, and pandemic preparedness.
The National Science Foundation and the Indian Department of Science and Technology announced nearly US$5 million in joint funding for research projects in next-generation telecommunications, autonomous vehicles, and machine learning. Additionally, the “Innovation Handshake” initiative aims to address regulatory barriers for startups entering the US and Indian markets.
Advancing Space Technology Cooperation
A landmark achievement is the collaboration between NASA and ISRO astronauts for a mission to the International Space Station, a significant milestone in space exploration. The Strategic Framework for Human Spaceflight Cooperation aims to enhance interoperability in space, with advanced training for ISRO astronauts at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
The NASA-ISRO Synthetic Aperture Radar satellite, which will map the Earth’s surface, is another notable project. Additionally, the US Space Force is partnering with Indian startups like 114ai and 3rdiTech to advance space situational awareness and other technologies.
Deepening Defense Innovation
Discussions on India’s acquisition of MQ-9B platforms, co-production of land warfare systems, and other defense initiatives are progressing. These high-altitude, long-endurance drones will significantly bolster India’s surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities, enhancing its ability to monitor vast maritime and land borders effectively. This acquisition is a testament to the growing trust and strategic alignment between the two nations.
Additionally, both countries are exploring the co-production of advanced land warfare systems. This includes potential joint projects to develop and manufacture state-of-the-art armored vehicles and artillery systems. Such collaboration not only boosts India’s indigenous defense manufacturing capabilities under the ‘Make in India’ initiative but also ensures interoperability between Indian and American military forces, enhancing their ability to operate seamlessly in joint missions.
The INDUS-X Summit highlighted several initiatives, including the launch of the INDUS-X Investor Summit in Silicon Valley and the awarding of $1.2 million in seed funding to U.S. and Indian companies.
Expanding Telecommunications Opportunities
The finalization of the India-US Open RAN Acceleration Roadmap and ongoing 5G and 6G R&D collaboration were significant milestones. Partnerships are being built to deploy high-quality, cost-effective Open RAN technology, with notable contributions from Qualcomm and Mavenir.
Strengthening Biotechnology and Bio-manufacturing
The launch of the Track 1.5 Biopharmaceutical Supply Chain Consortium aims to enhance resilience in supply chains and foster high-impact R&D collaboration. Joint funding opportunities between the National Science Foundation and the Department of Biotechnology will support collaborative research in biotechnology innovation.
Securing Semiconductor Supply Chains
A new strategic semiconductor partnership between General Atomics and 3rdiTech will focus on co-developing semiconductor design and manufacturing. The Semiconductor Readiness Assessment identified near-term industry opportunities and strategic development of semiconductor ecosystems.
Promoting Clean Energy and Critical Minerals Partnership
India’s role in the Mineral Security Partnership is vital, with co-investments in lithium and rare earths projects. An Advanced Materials R&D Forum will expand collaboration between American and Indian researchers. Efforts to quickly conclude a bilateral Critical Minerals Memorandum of Understanding are underway, focusing on technologies for critical minerals.
Enhancing Quantum, AI, and High-Performance Computing Collaboration
New cooperation in quantum science and technology includes launching a workshop on post-quantum cryptography and facilitating visits of Indian technical experts to US quantum institutions. The India-US Science and Technology Endowment Fund will announce winners of the “Quantum Technologies and AI for Transforming Lives” competition, fostering joint R&D.
The collaborative spirit between India and the US is evident in these initiatives, marking a new era in their strategic partnership in critical and emerging technologies. This partnership is poised to drive innovation, enhance security, and promote economic growth for both nations and the broader Indo-Pacific region.