Japan and India are likely to reach next month a broad defense accord that is seen as a step toward exporting Japan-made amphibious aircraft, Kyodo reported quoting Japanese government sources as saying Saturday.

An accord on the transfer of defense equipment and technology is expected to be sealed when Prime Minister Shinzo Abe visits India from Dec. 11 to 13, reflecting Japan's desire to have closer ties with India over maritime security to counter China's growing assertiveness at sea.

Since Tokyo eased its nearly half-century ban on defense equipment exports in April 2014, Japan and India have accelerated talks over India's possible purchase of US-2 amphibious aircraft.

Source: MENA