India, Jan. 10 -- US President Donald Trump's latest remarks about India's Apache attack helicopters have triggered fresh debate and tension between New Delhi and Washington. Trump claimed that India placed a massive order for Apache helicopters and that delivery delays were so severe that Prime Minister Narendra Modi personally sought a meeting with him.

He also linked defence cooperation with trade pressure and tariffs, at a time when both countries are negotiating a long-pending trade deal.However, a closer look at the defence agreements and delivery timelines tells a very different story.

Speaking at a Republican retreat in Washington, Trump said India approached him over delayed helicopter deliveries.

"I had India coming to me. 'S...