India has paused talks to buy key U.S. defense equipment after new American tariffs on its exports.
The suspension affects deals for Stryker vehicles, Javelin missiles, and Boeing P-8I aircraft.
India has suspended negotiations for the purchase of key U.S. defense equipment in protest against new American tariffs on Indian exports, a move that signals a fresh strain in bilateral ties.
According to multiple reports, the freeze affects discussions over several major acquisitions, including Stryker armored vehicles, Javelin anti-tank missiles, and Boeing P-8I maritime patrol aircraft. The pause comes after Washington, under President Donald Trump, imposed tariffs on a range of Indian goods, sparking renewed trade tensions between the two countries.
In a significant diplomatic gesture, India’s Defence Minister has also canceled a scheduled visit to Washington, which was expected to focus on strengthening military and strategic cooperation. The decision raises questions over the pace of ongoing defense collaborations under the India–U.S. strategic partnership, which has expanded in recent years through arms deals, joint exercises, and intelligence-sharing agreements.
While neither government has issued an official statement outlining the full scope of the suspension, sources familiar with the matter say the pause reflects New Delhi’s pushback against what it sees as protectionist trade measures targeting Indian industries. Analysts note that the move could delay joint defense projects and procurement timelines, potentially giving other suppliers such as France, Israel, and Russia an opening to advance their own military export deals with India.
The U.S. and India have deepened defense ties over the past decade, with New Delhi emerging as a key buyer of American defense technology and a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific region. However, trade disputes have occasionally tested the relationship, particularly when economic measures intersect with security cooperation.
