India and the United States are progressing in their discussions to collaboratively produce the latest generation of Stryker armoured infantry combat vehicles (ICVs).

Initially, the project will involve a limited off-the-shelf acquisition of Strykers through the US Foreign Military Sales program. Subsequent phases will include joint production in India, culminating in the co-development of future versions.

Host Dev Goswami and defence expert Shiv Aroor discuss the American Stryker combat vehicles deal and the ICVs' battlefield applications. They raise the larger question: Does India need this deal? With private players like Mahindra, Tata, or Ashok Leyland, couldn't India build something similar, given that the Stryker ICVs have few exemplary specifications? “I am not saying that India can do better than the Stryker right now, but we sure can get close,” says Shiv. They also explore how a deal for armoured vehicles from the US might threaten the 'Make in India' initiative.

Moreover, the Canadian aspect of the deal cannot be ignored amid the flared-up diplomatic tensions between India and Canada. How will this be factored in and pan out?

Tune in to know more!

Produced by Anna Priyadarshini

Sound mix by Nitin Rawat