“The Predator deal operationalises the US-India major defence partner tag as passed by the US Congress last year,” the source said. (Image: Reuters)Common security threats, maritime security and fast-tracking of the acquisition of $2-bn ‘Guardian’ drone deal for the Indian Navy – the first for a non-NATO country – are on top of the agenda for discussions when US defence secretary James Mattis comes to India next month. Confirming the visit of Mattis, highly-placed sources told FE that, “Since Chinese assets have started to dominate the Indian Ocean region, the Trump administration along with India is keen on fast-tracking the drone’s deal, which is manufactured by the US-based General Atomics, as well as addressing other major issues of mutual concern.” “The Predator deal operationalises the US-India major defence partner tag as passed by the US Congress last year,” the source said. Earlier this month, two-by-two ministerial dialogue was launched by US…
