Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies

• 21 Jun 2023

Recently, India and the United States unveiled a roadmap for enhanced collaboration in high-technology areas through the Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET).

• Aims: To position India and the United States as trusted technology partners and promote the co-production and co-development of items, as well as the establishment of supply chains.

Key Points

• Focus Areas under iCET
  • Establishment of a research agency partnership to promote collaboration in the field of artificial intelligence (AI).
  • Development of a defense industrial cooperation roadmap aimed at joint technological development and production in the defense sector.
  • Focus on developing common standards in the field of AI to ensure compatibility and interoperability.
  • Efforts to foster a semiconductor ecosystem, aiming to strengthen the semiconductor industry and supply chain.
  • Strengthened cooperation in the field of human spaceflight, with an emphasis on joint endeavors and knowledge sharing.
  • Advancing collaboration in the development of 5G and 6G technologies, highlighting joint research and innovation.
  • Adoption of OpenRAN network technology in India, with a focus on utilizing open and interoperable radio access networks.
• Quantum Coordination Mechanism: They have established the Quantum Coordination Mechanism, initiated a public-private dialogue on telecommunications, and held important exchanges on AI and space.
• Mega Jet Engine Deal: The two countries are also close to finalizing a mega jet engine deal and have concluded a roadmap for defense industrial cooperation.