India eyes US Stryker M-Shorad air defense vehicle.

The Indian Army's interest in the American 'Stryker' armored vehicle, adapted for high-altitude missions, is becoming increasingly evident. On February 16, 2024, this dynamic was underscored by the visit of General Manoj Pandey, the Chief of the Indian Army, to the headquarters of the 1st Corps of the US Army located at Joint Base Lewis-McChord (JBLM) in the state of Washington. This event highlights the growing importance of defense cooperation between India and the United States.
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US Stryker M-Shorad air defense vehicle considered by India (Picture source: US DoD)

This visit allowed General Pandey to receive a detailed briefing on the air defense systems of the Stryker combat armored vehicles, an initiative that underscores the commitment of both armies to strengthen their mutual understanding, particularly in terms of training and operational capability. This interaction is part of a broader effort to improve interoperability and cooperation between the Indian and American armed forces.

General Pandey was not only informed about the capabilities of the Stryker but also explored the possibilities offered by the Multi Domain Task Force and the Special Forces Group during his visit to the headquarters of the 1st Corps.

This meeting follows the offer made by the United States to India during the India-USA 2+2 Ministerial Dialogue held in New Delhi last year, where the Stryker combat armored vehicles were proposed to India, including from a co-production perspective as part of the Make in India initiative. Currently, this proposal is under evaluation by the Ministry of Defense (MoD) and the Indian Army, with no final decision made to date.

Defense Secretary Giridhar Aramane emphasized during a joint media briefing following the 2+2 ministerial dialogue that the American offer was seriously considered to meet the needs of the Indian Army, with particular interest in discussions on co-production.

The potential acquisition of Stryker vehicles by India, known for their ability to transport 8-9 soldiers and equipped with a rocket launcher, a light machine gun (LMG), Javelin anti-tank guided missiles (ATGM), and a short-range air defense system (SHORAD), could significantly improve the capabilities of the Indian mechanized infantry, especially in the context of recent border tensions and the need for a quick response in difficult terrains like eastern Ladakh.

Versions of the Stryker armored fighting vehicles’ air defense systems are designed for deployment in high-altitude regions to counter enemy aircraft threats. Manufactured by US-based General Dynamics Land Systems, Stryker vehicles are poised to enhance India’s mechanized infantry capabilities.

In recent years, the Indian Army has recognized the need for modern Armored Personnel Carriers (APCs), particularly after incidents like the Galwan Valley clash. This realization has sparked interest in acquiring fast-moving APCs to navigate challenging terrains like eastern Ladakh, where China’s vehicles pose a threat.