#USA 🇺🇸 - #INDE 🇮🇳 : INDIA PAUSES PURCHASE OF AMERICAN P-8I POSEIDON AIRCRAFT
India has suspended its plan to purchase 6 American military aircraft P-8I Poseidon, designed for maritime surveillance and submarine detection. The Indian army already possesses 12, but wanted to strengthen its capabilities in light of China's growing presence in the Indian Ocean.
The contract, approved in 2021 for $2.42 billion, has seen its cost rise to $3.6 billion in 2025, an increase of 50%. This rise is linked to new tariffs imposed by Washington on certain Indian products, in response to India's purchases of Russian oil and gas.
In the face of this inflation, New Delhi has chosen to 'pause' the purchase without canceling the contract, in order to reassess its relevance. Rumors of a complete halt to discussions with the United States on weapons have been denied. However, other projects — such as the acquisition of Stryker armored vehicles and Javelin missiles — are also on hold.
The P-8I remains essential for India, capable of long missions and extensive maritime coverage. But this issue reignites the debate on dependence on foreign suppliers. The government continues its 'Make in India' and 'Aatmanirbhar Bharat' (self-reliant India) strategy, aimed at developing local production through players like HAL or DRDO.
This decision sends a message: India wants to be treated as an equal power, not just a client, and refuses to yield to financial or political pressure.
Central question: should one pay more to preserve relations with a great power, or invest in local production, even if it means waiting longer?
