Howsoever, there may be differences in the perception for protecting environment, but when it comes to earning money and keeping its defence industry alive then United States of America sees India as a major partner. Though US praises New Delhi’s indispensable role in maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region as one of the reasons, it also knows that India’s defence is a very big market as the armament imports comprises the largest segment for India. The new-found love for partnership was seen with India approving purchase of 145 Ultra Light Howitzers M777, worth about Rs 5,000 crore, from the US. The offsets, under which BAE Systems, manufacturer of the gun, will invest about $ 200 million, will be pursued independently. The howitzers that can be heli-lifted were first proposed to be bought from BAE about 10 years back. This combat-proven system will provide the Indian Army with superior artillery capability at an advantageous price with early deliveries. The Indian shopping list does not end here. There are a plethora of equipment that form the part of defence services modernisation programme which is what US is eyeing. The changing geo-political environment even makes the adversaries as friends when it comes to earn the much needed extra dollar to keep domestic industry going. This is a proven fact that American economy sustains on its various wars it has been fighting. Today, its role as global policeman has been reduced with voices of opposition begin raised at home so to keep its industry going US will have to look for new pastures and with a robust economy and expansion plan in the pipeline at this point India is the ideal market, so the bonhomie. US is exploring new ways to address new challenges as well from maritime security to the growing threat posed by the spread of terrorism in Southeast Asia where it sees India’s indispensable role in maintaining stability in the Indian Ocean region as an edge as compared to others like Pakistan and China. The other reason is the growing influence and presence of China as maritime power challenging US hegemony along with growing tough talks by North Korea so the extension of friendship to a large extend is beneficial for India also.
