![](https://bharatshakti.in/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/LT-BSI-Defence.gif")
The United States has approved two military support packages worth more than $428 million for India’s fleet of Apache attack helicopters and M777 ultra-light howitzers, further strengthening defence cooperation between the two strategic partners.
The proposed deals, cleared by the US State Department, cover long-term sustainment, logistics, training, repair and technical support for the platforms already in service with the Indian armed forces.
The package for the AH-64E Apache helicopters is valued at approximately $198.2 million, while the support package for the M777 ultra-light howitzers is estimated at nearly $230 million.
Often described as “flying tanks”, the Apache is among the world’s most advanced multi-role combat helicopters, equipped for precision strikes, reconnaissance and close air support missions. The M777 howitzers, known for their lightweight design, can be rapidly deployed in mountainous terrain by helicopter, making them particularly suited for operations along the Himalayan frontier.
Both systems are currently deployed by India along the borders with China and Pakistan.
In a statement, the US State Department said the proposed sales would support Washington’s foreign policy and security objectives by deepening strategic ties with India.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship and to improve the security of a major defence partner,” the statement said.
It added that India remains “an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions”.
The US also noted that the proposed deals “will not alter the basic military balance in the region” and would have “no adverse impact on US defence readiness”.
According to the notification, the M777 support package includes spare parts, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, depot-level maintenance capability and other logistics support. The principal contractor for the programme will be BAE Systems.
The Apache support package includes engineering, technical and logistics support, repair services, spare parts, technical documentation and training required to sustain the helicopters over the long term. The principal contractors for the package are Boeing and Lockheed Martin.
India had signed contracts during 2015-16 for 22 Apache AH-64E helicopters for the Indian Air Force. A separate deal for six Apache helicopters for the Indian Army followed in 2020.
In 2016, India also signed a $737 million agreement with the US to procure 145 M777 ultra-light howitzers, significantly enhancing the Army’s artillery capability in high-altitude sectors.
Team BharatShakti
