US NSA Sullivan Stresses China Challenges, Highlights India-US Collaboration

Jake Sullivan, the National Security Advisor of the United States, during his visit to India, shed light on the challenges posed by China’s “predatorial industrial strategies” and the importance of enhancing India-US collaboration to counter these threats. Speaking at IIT Delhi during a session titled “The United States and India: Building a Shared Future”, Sullivan underscored the critical role of stronger defence and technological cooperation between the two nations in ensuring regional stability.

Addressing Threats from China

Sullivan highlighted how China’s industrial strategies have impacted key sectors like clean energy and semiconductors. He stated, “We’ve seen companies struggle to compete against China’s predatorial industrial strategies, which heightens risks of cyber espionage and destructive sabotage.”

To combat over-reliance on China, Sullivan praised initiatives like the US Chips and Science Act, India’s Semiconductor Mission, and the Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) program. These programs aim to spur domestic production in critical sectors such as biopharmaceuticals, clean energy, and semiconductors.

India as a Global Semiconductor Hub

Sullivan noted the success of collaborations like the American semiconductor company Micron partnering with India’s Semiconductor Mission. He emphasized that such efforts are transforming India into a key player in the global semiconductor ecosystem.

Growing Defence Cooperation

Reflecting on the Indo-Pacific region’s evolving dynamics, Sullivan lauded the remarkable growth of the India-US defence partnership over the past 25 years. From no defence trade in 1998 to collaborative manufacturing of defence systems today, the partnership symbolizes a shared commitment to regional security.

Sullivan revealed recent advances, such as the approval of proposals allowing India to become the first global producer of striker combat vehicles and advanced munition systems. He also highlighted the initiative to manufacture jet engines in India for indigenous fighter aircraft, further strengthening the defence supply chain.

Technological Collaboration

The NSA also pointed out the increasing synergy between American and Indian startups in developing cutting-edge technologies for military applications. These efforts, according to Sullivan, are pivotal in upgrading defence capabilities not only for India and the US but also for other Indo-Pacific nations.

Maritime and Regional Cooperation

Sullivan praised India’s active participation in the Maritime Forces Coalition, focusing on combating piracy and trafficking at sea. He also highlighted the impact of joint military exercises like Malabar, which train nations to respond swiftly to natural disasters across the region.

Ensuring a Secure Indo-Pacific

“At a time of rising provocations and destabilizing technologies, our cooperation is rapidly becoming a cornerstone for regional stability,” Sullivan remarked. He also mentioned agreements that enable US Navy vessels to seek repairs in Indian shipyards, further solidifying the partnership.

Conclusion

Sullivan’s visit underscored the shared vision of India and the US for a freer, more secure, and resilient Indo-Pacific. His remarks emphasized the importance of leveraging joint strengths in technology, defence, and clean energy to counter shared challenges, particularly from China.