New Delhi/Washington, May 19 (BNP): In a significant boost to bilateral defence cooperation, the United States has approved a military support package worth over USD 428 million for India, covering sustainment support for AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, according to the US Department of State.
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The approved package includes an estimated USD 198.2 million for support services and related equipment for Apache helicopters, aimed at ensuring operational readiness through engineering, logistics, technical support, training, and maintenance assistance. Major US defence firms Boeing and Lockheed Martin are expected to serve as the principal contractors for the Apache support programme.
In addition, the US has cleared a USD 230 million long-term sustainment support package for India’s M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, which are already in service with the Indian Armed Forces. The package includes spare parts, repair support, technical assistance, training, and logistics services, with BAE Systems designated as the principal contractor.
The approvals were issued under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme and notified to the US Congress. The US Department of State said the proposed support arrangements are intended to strengthen India’s defence preparedness and contribute to regional security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Officials noted that the proposed support packages would not alter the military balance in the region and would further reinforce growing strategic and defence ties between India and the United States.
