India and the United States engage in a collaborative military drill amid escalating tensions with China in the Indo-Pacific area. Aerial exercise featuring equivalent B-1 bombers and F-15E fighters The US Air Force dispatches two B1 strategic bombers and a squadron of F-15E fighters to India for participation in the “Exercise Cope India 2023.” This event signifies the first instance of B1 heavy bombers joining forces with the Indian Air Force (IAF) in a joint exercise.
The exercise commences on April 10 and extends until April 21, encompassing US C-130 and C-17 transport planes stationed at Kalaikunda. General Kenneth S. Wilsbach, commander of the US Pacific Air Forces, emphasizes the significance of this exercise in reinforcing defense cooperation between the two nations. China as the focal point India and the US express concerns over the increasing Chinese military presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
Wilsbach notes that both countries, along with other allies, aim to safeguard a free and open Indo-Pacific. While the exercise should not be interpreted as a direct message to China, it takes into account the evolving Chinese military capabilities and the regional security landscape. US endeavors to become India’s primary defense supplier, surpassing Russia. India has traditionally been a major purchaser of Russian military equipment.
However, in recent years, it has diversified its defense imports to include the United States. The delivery of F-15EX, F-35 fighter jets, and B-1B bombers to India can be perceived as a US attempt to showcase the potential of its military systems and persuade India to opt for its equipment instead of Russian alternatives. The potential for India to acquire B-1 bombers The Indian Air Force has previously contemplated acquiring strategic bombers. The USAF has retired 17 B-1 bombers from its fleet, leaving 45 in active service until the arrival of the B-21. India could potentially lease or purchase a squadron of B-1B bombers along with cruise missiles for approximately $1 billion. Such a squadron would significantly augment India’s offensive capabilities and act as a deterrent against Chinese aggression.
Summary Amid China’s increasing military presence, India and the United States engage in a joint air exercise involving B-1 bombers and F-15E fighters. The US seeks to supplant Russia as India’s primary defense supplier by showcasing its advanced military systems. If India acquires B-1 bombers, it would bolster its striking power and serve as a deterrent against Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.