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The Trump administration has cleared a support package worth an estimated $482.2 million for India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, providing long-term maintenance, logistics, and training support for two key platforms.
The clearance was notified by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) in the Federal Register on June 17, following the US State Department’s approval and notification to Congress on May 18 under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme.
Of the total package, sustainment support for the M777A2 ultra-light howitzers is valued at $230 million. The package covers spares, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, depot-level capability and other logistics and programme support requirements.
India inducted the M777 howitzers through the FMS route to enhance artillery firepower, particularly for operations in high-altitude and mountainous terrain.
A separate package worth $198.2 million has been approved for the Indian Army’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. It includes engineering, technical and logistics support services provided by the US government and contractors, technical publications, personnel training and associated programme support.
The AH-64E Apache is among the most advanced attack helicopters in service and is employed by the Indian Army for precision strike missions, armed reconnaissance and close battlefield support.
According to the US Department of Defence, the principal contractors for the Apache sustainment package will be Boeing and Lockheed Martin, while BAE Systems of the United Kingdom will support the M777 programme.
Washington said the proposed sales would support US foreign policy and national security objectives by reinforcing its strategic partnership with India, which it described as a major defence partner and a key contributor to stability, peace and economic growth in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia.
The Pentagon assessed that India would have no difficulty absorbing the support services and equipment. It said the package would strengthen New Delhi’s ability to meet present and emerging security challenges while improving homeland defence capabilities and deterrence against regional threats.
US officials also said the proposed support arrangements would not alter the regional military balance or affect American defence preparedness.
Team BharatShakti
