US-India Defense Deal: US Approves $93 Million Defense Sale to India Amid Strategic Partnership

Javelin Missiles and Excalibur Munitions to Bolster Indian Military Capabilities

The US State Department has approved a significant defense deal with India, authorizing the sale of Javelin anti-tank missile systems and Excalibur guided artillery munitions worth $93 million. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced the foreign military sale on Wednesday, marking India’s first major purchase under this program since bilateral relations faced strain in August. This deal follows India’s recent reorder of General Electric fighter jet engines for its domestically produced Tejas combat aircraft.

Strategic Importance of the Defense Agreement

The DSCA emphasized that this sale aligns with US foreign policy objectives, strengthening the strategic partnership between the two nations. “This proposed sale will improve the security of a major defense partner, which remains crucial for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions,” the agency stated. The Indian government has requested 216 Excalibur projectiles and 100 Javelin systems, with RTX Corp and its joint venture with Lockheed Martin serving as the principal contractors for the deal.

Technical and Operational Enhancements for Indian Forces

India currently operates Excalibur munitions with its M-777 Howitzer artillery, while the Javelin systems will introduce advanced anti-tank capabilities to its arsenal. The sale underscores the gradual deepening of US-India defense ties despite recent trade tensions, including increased tariffs on Indian goods by the Trump administration. The agreement signals continued military cooperation between the two democracies amid evolving security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.