India-US Defense Deal: Predator Drone Aircraft Project Hastened, Report Says

India and the United States are reportedly pushing forward a deal for the supply of Predator drone aircraft in order to complete the project before U.S. President Barack Obama leaves office early next year. The aim is to complete the main process in the next few months," Reuters quoted a government official in New Delhi -- speaking on condition of anonymity -- as saying. He was referring to the country's request for 22 Predator Guardian drones -- to be used for military surveillance -- that was made in June this year. India is apparently rushing to conclude the deal under the Obama administration as Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi shares cordial relations with the American president after several personal interactions since the former took office in 2014. India serves as a strategic partner in the U.S. mission to tackle terrorism in the region while Washington has replaced Moscow as the top arms supplier to New Delhi.