US Greenlights Major Defence Support for India's Apache Helicopters and Howitzers

Significant Defence Partnership Announcement

In a recent development, the United States has officially announced the proposed sale of sustainment support services and associated equipment for India's Apache helicopters and M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers, with an estimated value of USD 482.2 million.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), responsible for overseeing the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program, published this arms sales notification in the Federal Register on June 17.

Sergio Gor, the US Ambassador to India, highlighted the strengthening defence ties between the two nations, stating, "The United States and India continue to work together daily! Our defence partnership is GROWING. Just today, we announced a USD 230 million sale for a sustainment package for India’s M777A2 ultra-light howitzers is ready to be concluded," in a post on X.

The ambassador's post emphasized that this proposed sale aligns with the national security goals of the United States while ensuring that India retains essential capabilities for its defence.

On May 18, the US Department of State had previously informed Congress about the potential sales of services related to Apache helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers to India.

India has integrated the M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers, acquired from the US through the FMS route, to enhance its artillery capabilities, especially in challenging mountainous terrains.

Additionally, the Indian Army operates AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, recognized as some of the most advanced combat helicopters globally, designed for precision strikes and battlefield support.

According to the notification, India has requested long-term sustainment support for its M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers.

The notification details that various non-major defence equipment items will be included, such as ancillary items, spare parts, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, depot capabilities, and other logistics and program support elements, with an estimated total cost of USD 230 million.

In a separate announcement, the Department of Defence indicated that India has also requested sustainment support services for the AH-64E Apache, which includes engineering, technical, and logistics support from both US government and contractors, along with technical data, training, and other related logistics and program support.

The estimated cost for the Apache support package stands at USD 198.2 million.

Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractors for the Apache support services, while BAE Systems, based in Cumbria, UK, will lead the M777 howitzer support program.

The Department of Defence stated that these proposed sales would bolster US foreign policy and national security objectives by enhancing the strategic relationship between the US and India.

This initiative is expected to improve the security of a key defence partner, which plays a vital role in maintaining political stability, peace, and economic development in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions.

The proposed sales aim to enhance India's ability to address current and future threats, fortify its homeland defence, and deter regional challenges. The Department of Defence assured that India would seamlessly integrate these articles and services into its military.

Furthermore, the proposed sales are not anticipated to disrupt the existing military balance in the region and will not negatively affect US defence readiness.