US waives CAATSA threat, hoping for quid pro quo Indian orders
An F/A-18E Super Hornet of the USN’s California-based squadron VFA-25 performs a trap at the Indian Navy’s Goa naval station. (Photo: Boeing)
The US has decided not to impose any CAATSA penalties against India, something that would have irreparably damaged the US-India defence relationship.
The Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA), a sword of Damocles hanging over India since its $5 billion Russian S-400 missile buy, has been waived by the US.
This was achieved by a National Defense Authorization Act amendment by the US House of Representatives on 14 July. CAATSA imposes sanctions against countries transacting with Iran, North Korea and Russia, including defence contractors.
Within India, there is a greater willingness to move towards Western systems, which could also lead to more defence procurement from the US. However, India has been cautious about a repeat of US sanctions, which had
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Defence Notes
-
![Growing a digital backbone: an essential capability for the multi-domain battlespace (Studio)]()
Growing a digital backbone: an essential capability for the multi-domain battlespace (Studio)
Future operational superiority will be defined by the ability to connect systems, data and personnel into a wider network. For armed forces, this creates the need for a digital backbone that integrates and enhances sensors and effectors of all kinds.
-
![Estonia opts for smart, adaptable and cooperative solutions in the face of Russian threat]()
Estonia opts for smart, adaptable and cooperative solutions in the face of Russian threat
Estonian-made equipment is being put through the toughest of evaluations in the hands of Ukrainian soldiers resisting the full-scale Russian invasion which began in 2022. The country has long seen the threat and is continuing to adapt for the future.
-
![Estonia boosting defence industry with lessons from Ukraine, says country’s economic minister]()
Estonia boosting defence industry with lessons from Ukraine, says country’s economic minister
Estonia is looking to boost its local defence industry with directed funding, industry parks, support through international orders for equipment and rapid prototyping.
-
![UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens]()
UK faces cost of balancing defensive capabilities abroad as Iran conflict widens
The UK has recently deployed a Type 45 destroyer to Cyprus and has bolstered its presence in the Middle East in recent weeks with supporting air power to protect neighbouring countries’ air defences.
-
![White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production]()
White House calls on Pentagon contractors to “rapidly and aggressively” boost weapon production
Intended to sustain Operation Epic Fury against Iran, efforts to increase the production of weapons and ammunition could expose long-standing weaknesses in the US defence industrial base.
-
![India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict]()
India’s strategic defence footprint expansion could be accelerated by Iran-Israel conflict
The latest escalation between Iran and Israel could shape New Delhi’s next-generation shield as India deepens cooperation with Israel on missile defence and drone production.
