Describing the commissioning of INS Jalashwa, a landing platform dock, as "a new beginning" in its defence ties with the US, India has said it reflected the converging security priorities and interests of both countries.
"It is an important occasion. It marks a new beginning in defence cooperation between the US and India and between the two navies. This is the first ship acquired from the US for induction into our navy," Indian Envoy to US Ronen Sen said after formally commissioning the ship on Friday.
India joined a select group of nations operating a 'Landing Platform Dock' in high seas as INS Jalashwa was commissioned, providing the country's navy the enhanced capability to move troops and equipment to greater distances.
"It reflects the converging security priorities and interests of both countries. In the context of a global partnership, the Defence Framework set out the common interests in maintaining security and stability, combating terrorism, protecting the free flow of commerce and preventing the spread of weapons of mass destruction and associated materials, data and technologies," he said.
Sen also said India will procure six helicopters from the US and Indian pilots would be trained in US among a host of activities that would take place in the near future.