Missile Plan has United U.S. and India: NEW DELHI -- Three years after India exploded five nuclear devices in the Rajasthan Desert, triggering U.S. economic and military sanctions, the two countries are finding common ground on nuclear policy that Indian officials hope will lead to a full-fledged strategic partnership. The unexpected turnaround is a result of President Bush's proposal for a missile defense system, which Indian authorities have greeted enthusiastically, in sharp contrast to skepticism from U.S. allies and antagonists alike.