India, US launch INDUS X to enhance defence collaboration, innovation
1 min read 22 Jun 2023, 02:59 PM ISTThe initiative aims to foster collaboration and innovation between Indian and US defence startups, promoting technological advancements in the sector.
PremiumNew Delhi: The India-United States Defence Acceleration Ecosystem (INDUS X) was officially launched on 21 June at an event held in Washington DC, the ministry of defence said in a statement. The initiative aims to foster collaboration and innovation between Indian and US defence startups, promoting technological advancements in the sector.
Co-organized by Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) under the Ministry of Defence and the US Department of Defence (DoD), the two-day INDUS X event brought together government representatives, defence industry leaders, think tanks, investors, and start-ups from both countries.
Frank Kendall, US Secretary of the Air Force, delivering the opening keynote address highlighted the growing relationship between India and the United States and emphasized the tremendous potential for collaboration in deep tech domains, particularly in space and artificial intelligence (AI).
Anurag Bajpai, Joint Secretary (Defence Industries Promotion) of the Ministry of Defence, led the Indian delegation and emphasized the significance of the launch of INDUS X in strengthening bilateral defence relations.
He called for the co-development and co-production of advanced technologies by Indian and US start-ups, emphasizing the importance of collaboration across industries, academia, and investors.
The event featured a joint showcasing of innovative technologies by 15 Indian start-ups and 10 US start-ups, spanning multiple domains such as maritime, AI, autonomous systems, and space.
Senior US officials, including Congressman Ro Khanna and Radha Iyengar Plumb, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment, visited the exhibition, highlighting the importance of the event.
In addition to the showcases, INDUS X also hosted panel discussions and round-tables focused on deepening collaborations across various sectors, including government, academia, and industry, with particular emphasis on startups. The discussions covered topics such as export control regulations and explored opportunities for future partnerships.