Question of the Day – FRAMEWORK FOR THE U.S.–INDIA MAJOR DEFENCE PARTNERSHIP
QOTD April 14,2026
With reference to the U.S.–India Major Defence Partnership, consider the following statements:
- It designates India as a key defence partner to facilitate technology sharing.
- It allows India to access advanced defence technologies similar to U.S. allies.
- It is a legally binding military alliance like NATO.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
India has been recognized as a Major Defence Partner to enhance defence cooperation.
Statement 2 is correct
This status enables access to advanced defence technologies at par with close allies.
Statement 3 is incorrect
It is not a formal military alliance and does not impose mutual defence obligations.
Why in news–
The framework for the U.S.–India Major Defence Partnership has gained attention due to deepening defence cooperation between India and United States, including technology transfer, joint military exercises, and defence trade. Recent developments highlight efforts to enhance interoperability, co-production of defence equipment, and strengthening Indo-Pacific security amid evolving geopolitical challenges.
There are more questions from this topic that you should practice to make your concepts stronger.
Practice Questions (PQ)
PQ1.Consider the following statements:
- The Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA) allows reciprocal use of military bases.
- Communications Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA) enables secure communication between armed forces.
- Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) deals with geospatial intelligence sharing.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1, 2 and 3
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1 only
Answer : (a) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
LEMOA facilitates logistical support like fuel and supplies between the two countries.
Statement 2 is correct
COMCASA allows secure and encrypted communication systems.
Statement 3 is correct
BECA enables sharing of geospatial data for military purposes.
PQ2. Consider the following statements:
- India is a member of NATO due to its Major Defence Partner status.
- The defence partnership includes joint military exercises such as Yudh Abhyas.
- The partnership focuses only on arms trade and excludes technology cooperation.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 2 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is incorrect
India is not a member of NATO despite close defence ties with the U.S.
Statement 2 is correct
Yudh Abhyas is a key joint military exercise between India and the U.S.
Statement 3 is incorrect
The partnership includes technology transfer and co-development, not just arms trade.
PQ3. Consider the following statements:
- The Defence Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) promotes co-development of defence systems.
- The Indo-Pacific region is a key focus area of India-U.S. defence cooperation.
- The partnership restricts India from engaging with other defence partners like Russia.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
DTTI facilitates joint development and production of defence technologies.
Statement 2 is correct
Both countries cooperate to ensure a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Statement 3 is incorrect
India maintains strategic autonomy and continues defence relations with multiple countries.
Previous Year Question (UPSC Prelims)
With reference to India-U.S. relations, consider the following statements:
- LEMOA allows both countries to use each other’s military facilities for logistics support.
- COMCASA enables India to procure high-end secure communication equipment from the U.S.
- BECA is related to sharing of nuclear technology between India and the U.S.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 1 is correct
LEMOA provides access to designated military facilities for logistics support.
Statement 2 is correct
COMCASA enables secure communication systems and equipment transfer.
Statement 3 is incorrect
BECA deals with geospatial intelligence, not nuclear technology.
