Questioning the claims of defence trust: concerns over delays, dependency, and oversight

While PM Modi's statement about India becoming a trusted defence partner carries political weight, experts point to persistent challenges that could undermine that trust. Indian defence projects have historically been plagued by delays, with major indigenous platforms like the Tejas fighter aircraft and Arjun tank taking decades to develop. Exports, while growing, still account for a fraction of global trade, and some deliveries have faced bureaucratic hurdles. For instance, the delivery of Pinaka rocket systems to Armenia was delayed due to certification issues. Additionally, India remains heavily dependent on imported components, meaning it cannot guarantee entirely independent supply chains. Questions also arise about after-sales support and spare parts availability, which are crucial for maintaining trust. There are concerns that the push for self-reliance might lead to protectionist policies that deter foreign partners. Moreover, India's defence agreements are sometimes opaque, raising accountability questions. A trusted partner must not only supply equipment but also stand by its commitments during crises. India's record of honouring long-term contracts is yet to be fully tested. Without addressing these structural weaknesses, the claim of being a 'trusted partner' could be premature and risk straining relationships if expectations are not met.