US Approves $92.8 Million Defense Sale: Javelin Missiles and Excalibur Projectiles for India

A file photo of the Javelin FGM-148 missile, that US will possibly sell to India.

New Delhi:

The United States has granted approval for the potential sale of Javelin missile systems, Excalibur projectiles, and associated equipment to India at an estimated cost of $92.8 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) issued two statements on Wednesday confirming that the required certifications had been delivered, with Congress being duly notified.

According to the DSCA, this proposed military sale aligns with American foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the strategic partnership between the United States and India.

The first package, valued at $45.7 million, includes the Javelin FGM-148 missiles with fly-to-buy capability and 25 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU) or Javelin Block 1 Command Launch Units (CLU). Additional components encompass training simulators, battery coolant units, interactive electronic technical manuals, operator documentation, lifecycle support, security inspection services, spare parts, system integration, technical assistance from both the Security Assistance Management Directorate (SAMD) and Tactical Aviation and Ground Munitions (TAGM) Project Office, tool kits, training resources, CLU refurbishment services, and related logistical support elements.

The second package, estimated at $47.1 million, authorizes the potential sale of Excalibur Projectiles and related equipment. India has requested to purchase up to 216 M982A1 Excalibur tactical projectiles. This package also includes ancillary items, Portable Electronic Fire Control Systems (PEFCS) with Improved Platform Integration Kits (iPIK), primers, propellant charges, US government technical assistance, technical data, repair and return services, along with additional logistics and program support elements.

The DSCA emphasized that this sale would enhance "the security of a major defence partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions."

Furthermore, the agency stated that the proposed sale would bolster India's capability to address current and future threats, strengthen its homeland defense capabilities, and deter regional threats. The DSCA expressed confidence that India would have no difficulty integrating these weapons systems and services into its armed forces.

The agency also assured that this equipment sale would not disrupt the basic military balance in the region nor have any adverse impact on American defense readiness.