This will be the first visit by the US Defence Secretary after the ties between the two sides had been strained last year following India's rejection of two US contenders from the bid for a contract for supply of 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft to Indian Air Force.
During the visits, Panetta will hold talks with Defence Minister A K Antony. The two sides are also likely to sign some deals including the one for 145 Ultra Light Howitzers.
Sources said the discussion between Panetta and Antony might include the pending deals like Logistic Support Agreement (LSA) and Communications Interoperability and Security Memorandum of Agreement (CISMOA) and Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement or BECA for geo-spatial ties. They would also discuss pending defence deals and explore ways to boost ties, sources added.
The two sides have enhanced their military cooperation with increase in military exercises and sale of weapon systems to India by the US.
In last five years, India has procured weapon systems worth over USD 8 billion from the US. The list includes C-130J and C-17 transport aircraft, P-8I maritime surveillance aircraft and naval warships.