Date:07/07/2005 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2005/07/07/stories/2005070702201300.htm

International - India & World

``No deputations to U.S. military commands''

Special Correspondent

Purchase of complete missile defence systems from anyone ruled out

U.S. suggests posting of Indian liaison officers at its two global military commands to improve coordination between two militaries

NEW DELHI: After ruling out the purchase of complete missile defence systems from "anybody,'' Defence Minister Pranab Mukherjee has turned down an American suggestion for posting Indian defence officers at two of its global military commands.

"There is no question of posting officers at (U.S.) military commands. We have a defence attaché in Washington,'' said Mr. Mukherjee.

The U.S. had suggested the posting of Indian liaison officers at its two global military commands of Central Command and Pacific Command to improve coordination between the two militaries. The posting of an officer to the Pacific Command, the military unit with which Indian troops generally conduct joint exercises, would have improved coordination.

The previous National Democratic Alliance Government had deliberated on the offer but at that time officials wanted India's "transfer" to the Central Command as it included West Asia, a region vital to India's energy security. The U.S. has now stepped up its offer to depute officials to both its commands.

Mr. Mukherjee described the curbs on export of dual use technologies on India as "unjustified.''