The US Stryker infantry vehicle deal progresses; Javelin to be redemonstrated.

• US President Donald Trump’s comments on India’s military equipment needs are influencing discussions on defense deals, including the co-production of Stryker infantry combat vehicles.

• The Stryker, manufactured by General Dynamics, demonstrated optimal performance in high-altitude conditions for the Indian Army.

• The vehicles were tested in high-altitude conditions between 13,000 and 18,000 feet, including the Javelin Anti-Tank Guided Missile (ATGM).

• India has requested a repeat demonstration of the Javelin from the U.S., with a schedule being worked out.

• The Army has identified a key requirement for ATGMs mounted on infantry combat vehicles.

• The plan involves procurement of a few hundred vehicles in two stages, with direct import of a small number of Strykers and license manufacturing of a bulk of them in India.

• The Stryker deal is expected to be discussed during Modi’s U.S. visit, along with the deal for license manufacture of General Electric F-414 jet engines and delays in F-404 engines for the Light Combat Aircraft (LCA)-Mk1A.