Published 10:53 IST, February 11th 2020
India likely to sign military helicopter deal with Lockheed Martin during Trump's visit
India and US are soon expected to close a $2.6 Billion deal for military helicopters from Lockheed Martin, which is a US-based defence manufacturing firm
India and US are soon expected to close a $2.6 Billion deal for military helicopters from Lockheed Martin, which is a US-based defence manufacturing firm. The deal is expected to be signed as US President Donald Trump is set to visit India on a two-day State visit.
Deal expected soon
The MH-60R Seahawk helicopters are expected to deployed on India's warships in order to cut short lengthy negotiations between the firm and the Indian government.
Lockheed Martin has already sold F-21s to the Indian Air Force, C-130J Super Hercules, S-92 helicopters, MH-60 Romeo helicopters. The firm has a subsidiary in India as well, established in 2008.
In December 2019, the firm appointed William Blair as vice-president and chief executive for its India operations.
Lockheed Martin is a global security and aerospace company and is principally engaged in the research, design, development, manufacture, integration and sustainment of advanced technology systems, products and services.
On Monday, Defence Security Cooperation Agency stated that the US "State Department approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to India of an Integrated Air Defense Weapon System (IADWS) for an estimated cost of $1.867 billion."
It added, "This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the U.S.-Indian strategic relationship and to improve the security of a major defensive partner, which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia region."
In an announcement early on Tuesday morning, the White House confirmed that US President Donald Trump will visit India on February 24-25. Moreover, the Trump administration confirmed that he will be accompanied by the First Lady Melania Trump and will visit Delhi and Gujarat.
The release by the White House read "During a phone call over the weekend, President Trump and Prime Minister Modi agreed the trip will further strengthen the United States-India strategic partnership and highlight the strong and enduring bonds between the American and Indian people."
Updated 10:54 IST, February 11th 2020