Air Chief Marshal AP Singh, the Chief of Air Staff of the Indian Air Force, began his week-long visit to the United States on Monday to enhance defense cooperation between the two nations. Key topics of discussion will include ongoing projects and future collaboration opportunities. Singh's visit is particularly significant as India seeks to expedite the delivery of F404 engines from the US for the Tejas light combat aircraft (LCA Mk-1A) and is negotiating a joint production deal for F414 engines, which is estimated to be worth around $1 billion. The Indian defense acquisition council recently approved a military capability boost worth ₹2.38 lakh crore (approximately $28.7 billion USD), which includes the procurement of 60 medium transport aircraft (MTA) to enhance the Indian Air Force's airlift capabilities. Various global firms, including US-based Lockheed Martin and Brazilian Embraer, are competing for this contract. Additionally, the Indian government signed a $3.5 billion deal in 2024 for 31 MQ-9B drones to bolster defense preparedness, particularly concerning China, with deliveries expected to commence in 2029.