(Karachi) India is likely to strike a deal with the United States that will give it access to satellite data for better accuracy of missiles and drones, local media reported. The objective of acquiring the technology is to counter the increasing influence of China's military.

As per details, both sides will ink the agreement during the visit of US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and Defense Secretary Mark Esper to India next week.

The United States expected deal with India is aimed to push stronger security ties with India to help balance China's growing regional influence.

Since 2007, US companies have sold more than $21 billion (£16 billion) of weapons to India.

When signed, the agreement will allow the United States to share satellite and other sensor data with India in order to improve the Indian military’s targeting and navigation capabilities.

In February this year, India and the US signed defence deals worth over $3 billion for 24 MH-60R Seahawk Multi-Role Helicopters for the Navy and six AH-64E attack helicopters for the Army.

According to the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs of the US State Department, the defence trade has increased from near zero in 2008 to $15 billion in 2019. It said since 2008, the US has also sold to India over $6.6 billion in defence articles through the Direct Commercial Sales process.