India is acutely aware that trade and immigration issues are a potential double whammy. But it believes it can preserve growing ties.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s longstanding friendly rapport with President Donald Trump could be tested as the Indian leader kicks off a visit to Washington on Wednesday, eager to avoid tariffs that have been slapped on others and threats of further taxes and imports.

India is in talks with the United States for the purchase and co-production of combat vehicles as well as finalising a fighter jet engine deal, people familiar with the matter said. Trump asked Modi in a call last month to buy more U.S.-made security equipment and move "toward a fair trading relationship".