In a significant move to strengthen India’s defense capabilities, the US government has formally approved a massive defense support package worth an estimated $482.2 million (over ₹4,000 crore). This package will ensure long-term maintenance, technical assistance, and a steady supply of spare parts for India’s fleet of advanced AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers. The official notification regarding this Foreign Military Sale (FMS) was issued by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
Under this extensive deal, the M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers—which the Indian Army has strategically deployed in mountainous terrains along the borders with China and Pakistan—will receive $230 million worth of dedicated sustainment support. This includes spare parts, depot capability development, repair services, and technical training, with UK-based BAE Systems serving as the principal contractor. These ultra-light artillery guns are crucial for quick high-altitude deployment as they can be easily airlifted by heavy-lift helicopters.
The remaining $198.2 million of the package is allocated toward the comprehensive maintenance and logistics of India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, operated by both the Indian Air Force and the Army for precision strike missions. US defense giants Boeing and Lockheed Martin will manage this part of the agreement, providing engineering support and advanced technical training. The US Pentagon emphasized that this deal strengthens the US-India strategic relationship in the Indo-Pacific region and helps India deter regional security threats without altering the basic military balance in South Asia.
