October 21, 2002	Monday	Sha’aban 14,1423

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AGRA, Oct 20: India and the United States are due to conduct joint air defence exercises here in this Taj Mahal town this week, officials said Sunday.

Details of the show have been kept a close secret with officials unwilling to confirm when exactly the drills will begin.

However, sources said the advance teams of US and Indian troops had already arrived in the city and could begin the exercises any time.

In May, Agra was the venue of another joint exercise between troops of the two countries, particularly paratroopers.

Defence officials here said the exercises were likely to continue through the week.

“The exercises are aimed at providing quality training for aircrew and maintenance personnel and to foster a good working relationship between the US Air Force and the Indian Air Force,” one official said.

In May, the US troops faced rough weather and an intense heatwave. However, this time round, the weather is more moderate. Security has been tightened all over the city. More than 100 US Air Force personnel are expected to participate in exercises.—AFP