A New India
Chapter 196 - 196: India - Egypt Defence Deal

President Gamal Abdel Nasser knew that Egypt's recent move had upset the balance, and the reactions were coming fast.

Nationalizing the Suez Canal was not only a blow to the colonial powers of Britain and France but a message to the entire world: Egypt would no longer be at the mercy of foreign interests.

The canal belonged to Egypt, and it was Egypt alone that would reap the rewards of its lifeline.

But confidence had its limits.

Reports were coming in daily of British and French troops mobilising.

Nasser knew that, despite Egypt's passion and pride, his forces might not stand a chance if the West unleashed their might.

He couldn't afford to underestimate them. The canal might be Egyptian soil, but it was still a choke point that Britain and France viewed as their lifeblood.

As he looked out over Cairo, a thought settled in his mind, India.

A few weeks back, his ambassador, Hassan El Sayed, had returned from Delhi with hopeful news.

India, under Prime Minister Rohan, had shown strong support for Egypt's stance.

And Rohan was no stranger to standing up to colonial powers; he had the drive and vision to see beyond mere words.

"Send for Ambassador Hassan," Nasser ordered, turning from the window.

A few moments later, Hassan entered, bowing slightly.

Nasser's expression was intense, but calm.

"Hassan, I'm sending you back to India," Nasser began without preamble. "This time, we need more than diplomatic support. Britain and France are tightening their grip, and we both know they won't hesitate to act. We need allies who can truly tip the scales."

Hassan nodded, already guessing where this was going.

"India is our best option," Nasser continued, his voice low but intense. "Among the Third World nations, only India has nuclear capability. They have the influence and strength that could give Britain and France pause. We need to secure India's backing, whatever it takes."

Hassan's face was set in determination. "I understand, Mr. President. I'll make it clear to Prime Minister Rohan that Egypt stands firm, but we need tangible support."

Nasser nodded approvingly. "Good. And, Hassan… Rohan is a visionary. He sees beyond the immediate. Make him see Egypt's long-term potential as an ally. This isn't just about the canal; it's about showing the West that the time of colonial control is over."

Hassan gave a firm nod. "I'll do everything I can, Mr. President. Egypt will not face this alone."

With that, Hassan prepared for his journey to India

Within hours Hassan arrived in New Delhi under the cover of utmost secrecy.

This wasn't an official diplomatic mission; it was something far more delicate.

His arrival was kept low-profile, and he was swiftly escorted to the Prime Minister's residence, where Rohan awaited him.

"Ambassador Hassan," Rohan greeted warmly, his smile genuine but his eyes sharp, assessing. "It's always a pleasure to have you here."

"The pleasure is mine, Prime Minister," Hassan replied, taking a seat across from Rohan. "Thank you for seeing me on such short notice."

Rohan nodded. "I had a feeling Egypt would reach out, considering the recent developments." He studied Hassan carefully. "Tell me, what's on President Nasser's mind?"

Hassan took a deep breath, choosing his words carefully. "Prime Minister, as you're aware, the nationalization of the Suez Canal was a necessary step for us. It's not just an economic asset, it's a statement. Egypt is reclaiming what is ours."

Rohan listened intently, his expression unreadable but attentive.

"However," Hassan continued, "Britain and France see it as an affront. They still think of the canal as a symbol of their influence. Their actions, their mobilization, indicate that they won't let this go easily. President Nasser fears they're planning something… aggressive."

Rohan leaned back slightly, crossing his arms. "It's the colonial mindset, Ambassador. They may have relinquished formal control over territories, but they still believe in their right to 'manage' other nations. The canal is a wound to their pride as much as it is a matter of economics."

Hassan nodded, encouraged by Rohan's understanding. "Exactly, Prime Minister. Egypt is prepared to stand firm, but we are… realistic. Britain and France have considerable resources. If they strike, we cannot hold our ground alone. We need a powerful ally."

Rohan's eyes narrowed, his gaze thoughtful. "You're asking India to step into a very delicate position. Supporting Egypt openly could place us in direct conflict with two major powers. The political repercussions could be significant."

Hassan met Rohan's gaze evenly. "Prime Minister, if Egypt fails to defend its sovereignty over the canal, it will send a message that the colonial powers can continue to pull strings, even from a distance. This isn't just about Egypt, it's about the future of every country that has broken free from colonial rule."

Rohan nodded slowly, a flicker of admiration in his eyes. "You're right, Ambassador. The world order is changing, and it's up to countries like ours to assert that change."

Hassan leaned forward, his voice steady. "Prime Minister, Egypt needs more than words. We need tangible support arms, resources, and a partnership that can show Britain and France that Egypt is not alone in this struggle."

Rohan's gaze remained sharp. "India has always supported the sovereignty of nations, especially those that have endured colonial rule. But we must be practical. Military support could escalate the situation."

"Prime Minister," Hassan replied, "sometimes escalation is a necessary risk. A strong show of support could prevent conflict as much as provoke it. It could make Britain and France think twice."

Rohan considered this, his face thoughtful. He seemed to weigh the pros and cons before he finally spoke.

"You're asking us to send a message to the old empires. To show that former colonies won't stand by and watch each other be subdued again."

Hassan nodded firmly. "Precisely. Egypt is willing to face whatever comes, but we believe that with India's support, we can make a stand that will be remembered."

Rohan's lips curved into a faint smile. "You make a compelling case, Ambassador. I've always believed that solidarity among former colonies is our best path forward. India will support Egypt, not just because of the canal, but because your fight is our fight as well."

Hassan's face lit up, relief mixed with gratitude. "Thank you, Prime Minister. President Nasser will be immensely grateful."

Rohan held up a hand. "No need for gratitude. This is a matter of principle." He stood, crossing the room to his desk.

"Just a moment, Ambassador."

Hassan watched as Rohan opened a drawer, pulling out a thick document bound with an official seal.

Rohan returned to his seat and handed the document to him, his gaze steady.

Hassan took it, glancing down to see the title on the cover.

Three words stood out, catching his breath:

Indian-Egyptian Defense Deal.

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Military Supply List to Egypt (Total Value: $5 Billion)

1. Small Arms and Ammunition

Lee-Enfield No. 4 Mk I Rifles – 50,000 units

Sterling L2A1 Submachine Guns – 10,000 units

Bren Light Machine Guns (LMG) – 3,000 units

Vickers Medium Machine Guns – 1,500 units

Webley Revolvers – 8,000 units

Ammunition Supply

.303 British rounds – 20 million rounds

9mm Parabellum rounds – 10 million rounds

.455 caliber rounds – 5 million rounds

Estimated Value: $500 million

2. Artillery and Anti-Tank Weapons

25-Pounder Field Guns – 300 units

3-Inch Mortars – 800 units

2-Inch Mortars – 1,200 units

PIAT (Projector, Infantry, Anti-Tank) Launchers – 2,500 units

6-Pounder Anti-Tank Guns – 400 units

Ordnance ML 4.2-Inch Mortars – 500 units

Artillery and Mortar Rounds

High-explosive rounds for 25-pounder and 6-pounder guns – 200,000 rounds

Smoke rounds for mortars – 100,000 rounds

Estimated Value: $800 million

3. Armored and Transport Vehicles

Humber Armored Cars (Mk IV) – 100 units

Ferret Scout Cars – 200 units

Universal Carriers (Bren Gun Carriers) – 300 units

Bedford QL Trucks – 1,500 units

TMB 312 Transport Trucks – 1,000 units

Dodge Power Wagons – 500 units

Leyland Comet Trucks – 300 units

Estimated Value: $700 million

4. Anti-Aircraft Artillery

Bofors 40mm Anti-Aircraft Guns – 400 units

Oerlikon 20mm Cannons – 600 units

Hispano-Suiza HS.404 Cannons – 200 units

Estimated Value: $600 million

5. Aircraft Support

Hawker Tempest Fighters (Ground Attack Variant) – 36 aircraft

Mystere IV Aircraft – 24 aircraft

Light Trainer Aircraft (converted for ground attack) – 50 aircraft

Estimated Value: $900 million

6. Communications and Support Equipment

Wireless Set No. 19 Radio Transmitters – 2,000 units

Field Telephones (Telephone Set D Mk V) – 3,000 units

Field Hospital Tents and Kits – 200 sets

Estimated Value: $100 million

7. Engineering and Logistics Equipment

Portable Bridge-Building Kits – 100 kits

Explosives and Demolition Kits – 200 kits

Barbed Wire and Sandbags – Enough to fortify key positions

Fuel and Ammunition Trailers – 300 trailers

Estimated Value: $200 million

8. Improvised and Heavy Artillery

Improvised Artillery Mortar Systems – 100 units

Rocket Pods (Matra and SNEB) – 300 pods

Additional Heavy Artillery Support Units – 100 units

Estimated Value: $200 million

9. Personal Protection and Miscellaneous Supplies

Mk II Steel Helmets – 100,000 units

Camouflage Nets and Paint Kits – Enough to cover several battalions of equipment and vehicles

Water Purification Units – 500 units

Estimated Value: $100 million

Total Estimated Value: $5 Billion

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He looked up at Rohan, a hint of astonishment in his eyes. "Prime Minister… I didn't expect…"

Rohan gave him a reassuring nod. "This is India's commitment, Ambassador. A show of faith that Egypt does not stand alone. Take this to President Nasser. Let him know that we are in this together."

Hassan held the document close, feeling the weight of it in his hands. "Thank you, Prime Minister. Egypt will not forget this."

Rohan smiled. "We're building a new world order, Ambassador. One where nations like ours stand together. Let the old empires see what that looks like."