iCET (Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies)

The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies (iCET) is a high-level bilateral framework launched by the United States and India to strengthen strategic cooperation in key technological domains shaping the 21st century. Announced in May 2022 and formally launched in January 2023, the initiative aims to foster collaboration in advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, semiconductors, telecommunications, space, defence innovation, biotechnology, and clean energy. The iCET represents a landmark step in elevating the U.S.–India partnership from a traditional defence and economic engagement to a forward-looking technology alliance centred on innovation, security, and shared democratic values.

Background and Context

The world today is experiencing a technological revolution that is rapidly transforming economies, societies, and global power structures. Technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, cyber systems, biotechnology, and advanced materials are redefining national security and industrial competitiveness. Against this backdrop, the United States and India — two of the world’s largest democracies and innovation-driven economies — recognised the need to collaborate strategically on emerging technologies to ensure secure, resilient, and inclusive development.
The origins of iCET can be traced to the growing convergence of interests between the two nations in areas of science, innovation, and security. The idea was announced during the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) discussions and was later formalised through direct coordination between the National Security Councils (NSCs) of both countries. The framework was designed to deepen cooperation between governments, industries, and academic institutions while aligning regulations, supply chains, and research capabilities.
In January 2023, the inaugural meeting of iCET was held in Washington, D.C., co-chaired by the U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and India’s National Security Advisor Ajit Doval. The meeting signalled a new chapter in bilateral cooperation focused on technology as a strategic enabler of economic growth and global stability.

Objectives of iCET

The Initiative on Critical and Emerging Technologies seeks to:

• Strengthen strategic technology cooperation in key sectors vital for national security and economic competitiveness.
• Promote joint research and development (R&D) and co-production between American and Indian industries and research institutions.
• Enhance supply chain resilience in strategic sectors such as semiconductors and critical minerals.
• Facilitate regulatory alignment and streamline export controls to enable smoother technology transfers.
• Encourage public–private partnerships and innovation ecosystems in both countries.
• Build human capital and workforce capabilities for advanced technological sectors through academic and professional collaboration.
• Uphold democratic values and establish governance frameworks that ensure transparency, security, and ethical innovation in emerging technologies.

At its core, iCET aims to move beyond traditional buyer–seller relationships to foster co-development and co-production of technologies that serve mutual strategic and commercial interests.

Key Areas of Collaboration

The iCET framework encompasses a wide range of critical and emerging technologies that are reshaping global power dynamics:

1. Semiconductors and Supply Chain ResilienceSemiconductors are the backbone of modern electronics, from smartphones to defence systems. The United States and India seek to diversify global supply chains and reduce dependence on single-source manufacturing hubs. Under iCET, both countries are working on:
   • Facilitating U.S. investments in semiconductor fabrication in India.
   • Training Indian engineers and technicians in chip design and manufacturing.
   • Strengthening collaboration between Indian firms and U.S. semiconductor companies to establish research and testing facilities.
2. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Quantum TechnologiesAI and quantum computing are considered transformative fields for future warfare, cybersecurity, healthcare, and advanced computing. iCET promotes:
   • Joint AI research hubs focused on ethical applications, data governance, and AI safety.
   • Exchange programmes between universities and research institutes for quantum science and engineering.
   • Collaborative efforts to develop quantum-resistant cybersecurity systems and high-performance computing architectures.
3. Telecommunications and Advanced NetworksBuilding secure, interoperable, and resilient telecommunications infrastructure is central to iCET. Cooperation includes:
   • Joint research in Open Radio Access Networks (OpenRAN) to reduce reliance on single-vendor 5G and future 6G systems.
   • Development of standards and testbeds for advanced communication technologies.
   • Promotion of digital connectivity projects in the Indo-Pacific region.
4. Space and Defence CooperationSpace is another major pillar of iCET. The U.S. and India are expanding collaboration through:
   • Joint satellite design and space situational awareness programmes.
   • Collaboration between NASA and ISRO on planetary exploration and human spaceflight.
   • Enhancing cooperation in defence innovation through joint exercises, co-production of advanced systems, and integration of emerging technologies in defence platforms.
5. Critical Minerals and Clean Energy TechnologiesThe transition to clean energy depends on access to critical minerals like lithium, cobalt, and rare earth elements. Under iCET:
   • Both countries aim to develop secure and sustainable supply chains for critical minerals.
   • Partnerships in clean hydrogen, battery storage, and renewable energy are being promoted.
   • Efforts are underway to support green technology start-ups and joint ventures in sustainable materials and recycling.
6. Biotechnology and Health SecurityRecognising biotechnology’s growing importance, iCET supports joint research in genomics, pharmaceuticals, agricultural technology, and biosecurity. This includes collaboration on next-generation vaccines and pandemic preparedness.

Governance Structure and Implementation

iCET operates as a policy coordination mechanism led by the National Security Councils of both countries. It brings together multiple government departments, including defence, commerce, science and technology, and external affairs, as well as private sector stakeholders, think tanks, and academic institutions.
Implementation is driven through:

• The U.S.–India Strategic Trade Dialogue, aimed at addressing regulatory barriers and export control issues.
• Working groups focusing on specific technology domains such as AI, space, and semiconductors.
• Bilateral innovation platforms that connect research institutions and start-ups from both nations.
• Annual review meetings, where both sides assess progress, announce new initiatives, and define next steps.

While iCET is not a treaty, its flexible and adaptive structure allows both nations to pursue specific projects within a broader strategic framework.

Significance of iCET

The iCET represents a strategic alignment between the United States and India at a time when technological competition and geopolitical realignments are shaping the global order. Its significance can be understood in several dimensions:

• Strategic Dimension: iCET enhances strategic trust between two major democracies, contributing to a secure and open Indo-Pacific region. It complements other initiatives such as the Quad and strengthens the technological foundations of democratic alliances.
• Economic Dimension: The initiative is expected to catalyse investments, innovation, and job creation in high-tech sectors across both economies. It also strengthens supply chain resilience in areas like semiconductors and clean energy.
• Scientific and Industrial Collaboration: By linking academic research with industrial application, iCET bridges the gap between innovation and production, helping both nations to remain competitive in emerging technologies.
• Global Governance: The initiative promotes a model of technology governance rooted in transparency, accountability, and respect for privacy and human rights — offering an alternative to authoritarian models of technological development.

Challenges and Future Prospects

While iCET holds immense promise, it faces several challenges:

• Regulatory and bureaucratic hurdles in both countries can slow implementation.
• Export control restrictions and differences in intellectual property frameworks may limit technology transfers.
• Funding and private-sector participation will be crucial to move from policy intent to practical outcomes.
• The initiative must also balance national security sensitivities with the need for open innovation.

Nevertheless, the future of iCET looks promising. Recent developments, including U.S. investments in India’s semiconductor sector and joint announcements on space collaboration, indicate that the initiative is already yielding tangible outcomes. The establishment of new Innovation Bridges, joint R&D funds, and university exchange programmes further demonstrates its momentum.