Amid growing calls in India to boycott Turkey for its perceived support of Pakistan, the United States, under President Donald Trump, has approved a $304 million missile deal with Turkey. This move has sparked considerable debate and raised concerns in India, particularly in light of Turkey's relationship with Pakistan. The deal, which awaits approval from the US Congress, includes approximately $225 million for 53 medium-range missiles and $79 million for 60 Sidewinder Block II missiles.
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) indicated that RTX Corporation, formerly Raytheon Technologies, will be the main contractor. The proposed sale is intended to bolster the air defense capabilities of a key NATO ally and enhance security cooperation between Turkey and the United States. The DSCA also stated that Turkey would have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.
However, this decision has stirred unease in India, with analysts and commentators questioning the implications of arming a nation that has often sided with Pakistan on various international issues. There are concerns that these weapons could potentially be transferred to Pakistan, exacerbating regional tensions. Reports and historical context suggest that Pakistan has previously used weapons with Turkish connections against India, such as during the Balakot episode in 2019. In 2009, Pakistan struck a deal with a Turkish aerospace firm to upgrade its F-16 jets, and these F-16s are capable of firing the advanced medium-range air-to-air missiles (AMRAAMs) that Turkey is now set to acquire from the US.
Adding another layer to the complexity, Turkey has also expressed interest in acquiring the F-35 fighter jet, a fifth-generation combat aircraft. However, previous decisions by Turkey to purchase weapons from Russia, specifically the S-400 missile defense system in 2017, have created obstacles due to US laws.
This arms deal comes at a time when India has been focused on strengthening its own defense capabilities and promoting indigenous weapons systems. Following "Operation Sindoor," where Indian-made weapons "proved their worth", there is an increased emphasis on boosting defense exports. Furthermore, "Operation Sindoor" showcased improved synergy between the Indian Army, Navy, and Air Force, highlighting advancements in integrated command and control systems and the use of artificial intelligence in warfare.
Amid these developments, India's foreign minister, S Jaishankar, engaged in talks with the Taliban's acting foreign minister, signaling a shift in diplomatic strategy. This move is seen by some as an effort to potentially outflank Pakistan by fostering a relationship with Kabul, especially given the clashes between the Taliban and Pakistan over border disputes and the alleged support for TTP terrorists in Pakistan.
The US's approval of the missile deal with Turkey has thus introduced a complex set of challenges and considerations for India. As the deal awaits congressional approval, India is closely monitoring the situation, assessing the potential risks, and recalibrating its diplomatic and defense strategies in response to the evolving geopolitical landscape.
