India, US sign two pacts to deepen defence cooperation

India and the United States have signed the Security of Supply Arrangement (SOSA), a key agreement to ensure the mutual supply of defense goods and services. The arrangement allows both nations to request priority delivery of defense-related items from each other in the event of supply chain disruptions. This agreement, signed by Indian and U.S. defense officials, marks a significant step in strengthening the Defense Technology and Trade Initiative (DTTI) and expanding the India-U.S. Major Defense Partnership.

Additionally, a memorandum of agreement was signed to assign liaison officers, further deepening defense cooperation. This collaboration is part of broader efforts to fast-track technology cooperation and co-production in critical areas such as air combat systems, intelligence, and munitions. SOSA positions India as the 18th partner in a growing list of U.S. defense trade allies, highlighting the increasing strategic importance of the India-U.S. defense relationship.

This agreement follows other foundational defense agreements between the two countries, including the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA) and the Logistics Exchange Memorandum of Agreement (LEMOA). Both sides are also addressing supply chain bottlenecks that have impacted projects like India's Tejas light combat aircraft, emphasizing the need for timely delivery of critical components

Source: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/india-us-sign-two-pacts-to-deepen-defence-cooperation-101724417872391.html

Question: What are the foundational agreement between USA and India for defence cooperation?

1. General Security of Military Information Agreement (GSOMIA);
2. Logistic Support Agreement (LSA);
3. Communications and Information Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA)
4. Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement for Geospatial Intelligence (BECA)

India Plans 18 Water Aerodromes in States, UTs Nation

India is set to establish 18 water aerodromes across key regions including the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Lakshadweep, Goa, Assam, Andhra Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh to boost regional connectivity and tourism. Announced by Union Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu, the initiative simplifies regulations, allowing non-scheduled entities to operate seaplane services. The government has also introduced streamlined certification processes, reduced compliance requirements, and removed the need for waterdrome licenses. These measures are expected to expand seaplane operations, which currently exist in Andaman & Nicobar and Gujarat.

In related news, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has suspended the approval of Bhopal-based International Aircraft Sales following concerns raised after a fatal aircraft crash in Guna, Madhya Pradesh. The crash, caused by engine failure, highlighted issues with the engine overhaul conducted by the company, prompting the regulatory action.

Source: https://www.deccanchronicle.com/nation/india-plans-18-water-aerodromes-in-states-uts-1818419

Question: What is a seaplane?

A seaplane is a powered fixed-wing aircraft designed to take off and land on water. It can operate not only on the sea but also on rivers such as the Sabarmati and Ganga, as well as large bodies of water like lakes