India Rises as Key US Defence Partner, Leveraging Innovation to Counter China
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Raj Shah, a leading national security expert and former head of the Pentagon's Defence Innovation Unit Experimental (DIUx), believes the US is at a pivotal moment in its defence innovation journey. In an interview with HT, Shah highlighted the importance of platforms like INDUS-X, which have helped both countries accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies. According to Shah, the next frontier in defence innovation is combining cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, autonomy, cyber capabilities, and space-based systems at speed and scale. This requires strategic thinking and global partnerships to operationalise technologies quickly and reliably. While the US is in a strong position in these technologies compared to China, Shah cautioned that America's dominance is not assured. To stay ahead, the US must work with allies like India to leverage dual-use technologies and scale solutions across borders. Shah praised India's emergence as a major defence innovation partner for Washington, citing the success of initiatives like INDUS-X. These partnerships not only accelerate technology adoption but also expand the industrial base and reinforce shared security interests. Shield Capital, a Silicon Valley-based national security VC firm co-founded by Shah, looks to invest in startups from around the world, including India, that offer innovative solutions in AI, autonomy, cyber, and space. Indian companies can contribute to US defence priorities by responding to solicitations and collaborating with US firms to supply critical technologies. As the global defence landscape evolves, Shah emphasized the need for the US to think strategically and globally, aligning with allies and sharing capabilities where interests overlap. By doing so, America can maintain its position as a leader in defence innovation and stay ahead of rising competitors like China.
