US scrutinizes India's plans to buy defense system from Russia
What's the story
Though India is a sovereign democracy which makes its own decisions, parleying with conflicting world powers is usually a tricky affair.
Lately, India purchasing the S-400 air defense missile system from Russia is being closely watched by the US.
US state department has reportedly discussed with India how a newly enacted law could potentially determine if the purchase is "sanctionable."
Here are the details.
Russia deal
What is India buying from Russia?
India had finalized an agreement to buy S-400 Triumf air defense systems from Russia in October'16. They are negotiating for at least five systems worth Rs. 39,000cr.
Reports suggest that India-Russia will decide this during Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman's upcoming visit to Moscow.
This system will detect, track and destroy the hostile weapons.
India will be the second buyer of this system after China.
US law
Does US law punish entities that deal with Russia?
Incidentally, if India goes ahead with this, it could face sanctions under the Countering American Adversaries through Sanctions Act (CAATSA). The US administration can punish entities carrying out deals with Russia in the defense or intelligence sectors.
This was signed into a law by President Trump in August'17. US wants to punish Russia for its questionable activities regarding meddling in US Presidential polls.
Rider
So, what is India's argument against such a law?
On its part, India has made it clear that its relations with countries aren't subject to US approval. India maintains that "our defense requirements are determined by us, independent of pressures and outside influence."
US state department took a cautious approach saying, "We have discussed CAATSA with the Indian government," and the US will help partners "identify and avoid engaging in potentially sanctionable activity."
Implication
What is the significance of this move?
In this scenario, US should take into account India's long-standing relation with Russia.
Cara Abercrombie, US defense department official noted that, "Approximately 60% of India's defense inventory is Russian-made" adding that it's "a legacy of India's Cold War-era relationship with the Soviets."
Further, if India has to choose between "a robust, well-equipped military and US goodwill, India would likely choose the former," she contended.