US Clears Apache, M777 Support For India
The United States has formally moved ahead with proposed support packages for India’s Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, strengthening defence maintenance and operational readiness between the two countries.
US India Defence Support Package Approved
The proposed Foreign Military Sales support package is valued at about $428.2 million, covering sustainment services and related equipment for India’s AH-64E Apache helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers.
The package includes spare parts, repair and return support, training, technical assistance, logistics support, field service representatives and programme support. It is aimed at helping India maintain the long-term operational availability of these frontline military platforms.
Some reports have mentioned the figure as $482.2 million, but the component-wise values indicate about $198.2 million for Apache support and $230 million for M777A2 howitzer sustainment, taking the total to $428.2 million.
Apache Helicopter Support For India
The Apache support package covers engineering, technical and logistics support services for India’s AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. These helicopters are used for precision strike, battlefield support and anti-armour missions.
The principal contractors for the Apache-related support are expected to include Boeing and Lockheed Martin. The package will help keep the helicopter fleet mission-ready through maintenance, training and technical assistance.
M777 Howitzer Sustainment Deal
The M777A2 support package is focused on long-term sustainment of the ultra-light howitzers used by India, especially in difficult and mountainous terrain.
BAE Systems is expected to be the principal contractor for the howitzer support programme. The deal underlines the growing defence partnership between India and the United States while supporting India’s artillery and aviation readiness.
