New Delhi: India and the US are in the process of examining Kolkata port for a potential new agreement that would enable US warships to undergo repairs at the port. This move signifies a deeper collaboration between the two countries in the Indo-Pacific region. Last year, the US Navy inked agreements with Larsen and Toubro as well as Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Ltd. Additionally, Cochin Shipyard Ltd recently joined the list by signing a similar pact. These agreements grant the US Navy access to Indian ports such as Cochin and Kattupalli in Chennai, with negotiations ongoing for a similar deal with Goa Shipyard Ltd.

The Master Ship Repair Agreement (MSRA) allows qualified shipyards to compete for US Navy repair projects and encompasses various clauses concerning security, payments, and liabilities. Minister of State for Defence, Ajay Bhatt, informed the Lok Sabha in 2023 that American Navy vessels will be docked at Indian shipyards during their repair periods.

Expanding Network
The inclusion of Kolkata Port in this network strengthens India's defense ties with the US and could attract interest from other American allies like the UK. Earlier this year, the UK's Royal Navy announced plans to have two auxiliary ships undergo maintenance at Katupalli Shipyard in Chennai.

During PM Narendra Modi’s visit to the US in June, both countries highlighted India's role as a hub for maintenance and repair of US Navy assets. This aligns with the Defence Industrial Roadmap, aiming for collaborative efforts in logistic, repair, and maintenance infrastructure for aircraft and vessels in India.

These agreements underscore the growing defense partnership between New Delhi and Washington, marked by increased military exercises, foundational defense agreements, and plans for defense industry cooperation, including joint production initiatives such as the F-414 jet engine by HAL and General Electric in India.

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