The Donald Trump administration has approved a major defence sustainment package worth $482.2 million (approximately ₹4,555 crore) for India, covering two key weapons platforms of the Indian Armed Forces: the AH-64E Apache attack helicopter and the M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzer. Even as Pakistan's Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir project closeness with the United States in the context of the Iran conflict, this latest approval offers a telling indication of where Washington's real strategic defence priorities lie in South Asia.
DSCA Publishes Formal Notification in Federal Register
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which administers the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, has issued the formal notification of this proposed sale in the Federal Register. Before this step, the US State Department had already briefed the US Congress about the potential deal the previous month, setting the ground for DSCA's official announcement.
M777A2 Howitzer Package: $230 Million
India has requested long-term sustainment support for its fleet of M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers. This portion of the package covers ancillary equipment, spare parts, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, and other related logistics support, with an estimated cost of $230 million. India originally acquired the M777A2 howitzers through the US Foreign Military Sales route, purchasing them specifically to strengthen the Indian Army's firepower in high-altitude and difficult mountainous terrain.
Apache Helicopter Package: $198.2 Million
A separate sustainment support package has been put together for India's AH-64E Apache attack helicopters, estimated at $198.2 million. It includes engineering, technical and logistics support services, personnel training, and other associated programme assistance. Apache helicopters are regarded as a vital component of the offensive capabilities of both the Indian Air Force and the Indian Army.
Boeing, Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems Named as Prime Contractors
The US Department of Defense has designated Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin as the prime contractors for the Apache programme. For the M777A2 howitzer support programme, UK-based BAE Systems will serve as the prime contractor.
A Deepening Strategic Bond Between New Delhi and Washington
The US Department of Defense has stated that this proposed transaction is consistent with American foreign policy and national security objectives, and that it will further strengthen the strategic partnership with India. According to the department, the package will help India address current and future threats, enhance its homeland defence capabilities, and build deterrence against regional challenges. Defence ties between New Delhi and Washington have grown considerably stronger in recent years, and this latest approval represents another concrete milestone in that ongoing relationship.
