New Delhi: The United States has approved a military support package worth approximately USD 482.2 million for India’s fleet of Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 Ultra Light Howitzers, further strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.
The proposed Foreign Military Sale includes long term sustainment support, technical assistance, training, logistics services and spare parts to ensure the continued operational effectiveness of two key platforms used by the Indian armed forces. The notification was formally issued by the US Defence Security Cooperation Agency and communicated to the US Congress.
A significant portion of the package, valued at USD 230 million, is dedicated to sustaining India’s M777A2 Ultra Light Howitzers. These artillery systems were acquired through the US Foreign Military Sales programme and are extensively deployed in high altitude and mountainous regions due to their mobility and lightweight design. The support package covers spares, repair services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives and other logistics requirements.
In a separate component valued at USD 198.2 million, India will receive comprehensive sustainment support for its AH 64E Apache attack helicopters. The package includes engineering support, technical documentation, logistics assistance, training and programme management services aimed at maintaining the combat readiness of the advanced helicopter fleet.
The Apache support programme will be executed primarily by Boeing and Lockheed Martin, while the M777 sustainment package will be led by BAE Systems.
US defence officials stated that the support packages align with broader strategic objectives of enhancing India’s defence capabilities and strengthening its role as a key security partner in the Indo Pacific region. The assistance is expected to help India maintain readiness against evolving security challenges while improving deterrence and operational effectiveness.
India currently operates the AH 64E Apache for precision strike, reconnaissance and battlefield support missions, while the M777 howitzers form an important component of the Army’s artillery capabilities.
The latest approval underscores the growing strategic partnership between New Delhi and Washington, with defence cooperation continuing to expand across multiple domains, including military hardware, logistics, technology sharing and joint operational support.
