US President Donald Trump has acknowledged signs of strain in his otherwise close relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, pointing to trade tariffs and delays in the delivery of American defence equipment, including Apache attack helicopters.
Addressing the House GOP Member Retreat, Trump remarked that the Indian Prime Minister was ‘not that happy’ with him, attributing the discomfort to tariffs imposed by Washington.
Under Trump’s administration, the United States has levied steep duties on several Indian imports, a move that has remained a point of contention in bilateral trade relations.
Trump, however, defended his tariff strategy, describing it as a powerful economic and national security instrument. He claimed the measures had boosted US revenues and compelled trading partners to renegotiate terms more favourable to Washington.
The US President also revealed that New Delhi had approached him over delays in the supply of Apache helicopters ordered years ago.
Recounting a conversation with PM Modi, Trump said India had been waiting for nearly five years for the delivery of the combat aircraft and had urged the US to speed up the process.
According to Trump, India placed a substantial order for American-made helicopters, including 68 Apache attack helicopters, underlining the scale of defence cooperation between the two countries.
Using India’s experience as an example, Trump criticised long production timelines in the US defence sector. He argued that advanced platforms, such as Apache helicopters and F-35 fighter jets, were taking too long to reach both American forces and their foreign partners.
Push for Faster Deliveries
The President told Republican lawmakers that his administration was pressing defence manufacturers to accelerate output and ensure quicker delivery of critical military hardware to allies.
Trump’s comments on India formed part of a broader speech focused on domestic politics, trade and national security.
While brief, his remarks highlighted the dual nature of India–US relations, strong defence and strategic ties alongside economic disagreements.
India remains among the largest purchasers of US defence equipment, with Apache helicopters playing a crucial role in the modernisation plans of the Indian Army and Air Force.
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