India and the US sign LEMOA: What it is about

It facilitates the provision of logistical support, supplies, and services between the US and Indian militaries on a reimbursable basis, and provides a framework to govern them.

It would help both countries in governing the use of each other's land, air and naval bases for repair and resupply, a step toward building defence ties as they seek to counter the growing maritime assertiveness of China.

The two countries have agreed to facilitate greater and regular interactions to deepen mutual understanding between military services and promote practical cooperation in areas of mutual interest, such as counter-terrorism, maritime security, special operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

The pact will emphasise on strengthening defence ties across many areas: from strategic and regional cooperation, to deepened military-to-military exchanges, to expanded collaboration on defence technology and innovation.

Both Parrikar and Carter have agreed on the importance (that) this framework will provide to facilitate innovative and advanced opportunities in defence technology and trade cooperation.

To this end, the US has agreed to elevate defence trade and technology sharing with India to a level commensurate with its closest allies and partners.

Welcoming the signing of the bilateral agreement, defence minister Manohar Parrikar and US defence secretary Ashton Carter said the pact will facilitate opportunities for "practical engagement and exchange".

It was "in principal" agreed on during Carter's visit to India in April.