US Approves $428 Million Apache Helicopter And M777 Howitzer Support Deals For India
Washington: India’s defence partnership with the United States has received another significant boost after Washington approved two major military support packages valued at more than USD 428 million. According to PTI and reports published by Financial Express, the proposed agreements cover sustainment and operational support for India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers.
As per the US Department of State, the Apache helicopter support package is estimated at nearly USD 198.2 million, while the M777 howitzer support programme is valued at around USD 230 million. Both proposals have been cleared under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) framework.
The approved packages include engineering assistance, logistics support, technical services, training, spare parts, repair solutions, publications, and other programme-related support aimed at ensuring long-term operational readiness of the systems. Boeing and Lockheed Martin are expected to serve as the principal contractors for the Apache package, while BAE Systems will handle the M777 support programme.
India operates one of the largest fleets of AH-64E Apache helicopters outside the United States. These combat helicopters are widely used for anti-armour operations, close air support missions, and precision strike capabilities. Equipped with advanced radar systems, Hellfire missiles, and 30mm chain guns, the aircraft play an important role in deployments along India’s borders with China and Pakistan.
The new sustainment package is expected to help maintain high operational availability of the Apache fleet across varied terrains, including Himalayan sectors and desert regions.
Meanwhile, the M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers continue to remain a key part of India’s artillery modernisation plans. India had signed a USD 737 million deal in 2016 for 145 M777 guns, which are known for their lightweight structure and rapid mobility in high-altitude regions. Their ability to be transported by helicopters and heavy-lift aircraft has strengthened India’s deployment capability along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
The US State Department stated that the proposed sales would strengthen Washington’s strategic partnership with India and support broader security objectives in the Indo-Pacific region. The department also noted that the deals would enhance India’s ability to address present and future security challenges while improving homeland defence preparedness.
The approvals come at a time when defence cooperation between India and the US has been steadily expanding through military sales, technology partnerships, and operational collaboration.
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