Vance offers F-35 jets, crude oil, tech; pushes for market access
US Vice President JD Vance today formally offered India the latest fighter jets, F-35, while seeking greater access to Indian markets. Speaking at an event in Jaipur, he promised to collaborate on cutting-edge technologies, increase American crude oil and gas exports to India and announced that the terms of reference for a bilateral trade agreement had been agreed upon.
Vance, along with his wife Usha and their three children, is visiting India from April 21 to 24.
Addressing the gathering, Vance criticised previous US administrations for adopting a “preaching” tone with Prime Minister Narendra Modi. “We come to you as partners. We are not here to preach that you do things in any one particular way,” he said.
On trade ties, he stated, “The current administration seeks partnerships based on fairness and shared national interests. We want a system of global trade that is balanced, open, stable and fair. The US and India share common goals in both economics and national security.”
He refuted accusations that President Donald Trump started a trade war. Vance highlighted his meeting with PM Modi in Delhi on Monday, saying they had announced the finalisation of terms for trade negotiations. He outlined plans for expanded cooperation in data centres, pharmaceuticals, undersea cables and other critical sectors. “Americans want further access to Indian markets. This is a great place to do business and we want to give our people more access to this country,” he said, suggesting India consider reducing non-tariff barriers for US businesses. He cited ethanol blending as an area where the US could offer support.
On defence cooperation, Vance said, “We will co-produce missiles like Javelin and Stryker combat vehicles. Our nations will co-produce many of the munitions and equipment needed to deter foreign aggressors.”
‘Jealous of Modi’s approval ratings’
Hailing PM Modi’s leadership, Vance calls as “special person” and says his approval ratings “make me jealous”
He also says Modi “is a tough negotiator who drives a hard bargain to fight for India’s industry”
The PM thinks deeply about India’s prosperity, not just for the rest of his term, but over the next century, Vance adds
“We want your nation to buy more of our military equipment,” Vance said, amid reports of Russia, France and Israel emerging top three military equipment suppliers to India.
Turning to energy, Vance proposed strengthening US-India energy ties, offering increased exports of American crude and gas. He also expressed willingness to assist India in exploring its natural resources, including offshore gas reserves and critical minerals. “Energy co-production will help beat unfair competitors in foreign markets,” he said.
Vance welcomed India’s budget proposal to amend civil nuclear liability laws, which currently prevent US firms from exporting small modular reactors and building larger reactors in India.
On the Indo-Pacific, Vance affirmed that US and Indian interests aligned in ensuring a free, open and prosperous region. “We believe a stronger India means greater economic prosperity, but also greater stability across the Indo-Pacific,” he said.
Our prayers with victims: Vance on Pahalgam attack
US Vice-President JD Vance and Second Lady Usha Chilukuri on Tuesday extended condolences to the victims of the Pahalgam terror attack. “Usha and I extend our condolences to the victims of the devastating terrorist attack in Pahalgam, India,” Vance said in a post on X. “Over the past few days, we have been overcome with the beauty of this country and its people. Our thoughts and prayers are with them as they mourn this horrific attack,” he said.
