US clears $93-mn sale of Javelin missiles and Excalibur precision artillery rounds to India

Javeline anti-tank missiles

The US has approved two key military sales to India worth a combined $93 million, strengthening New Delhi’s precision-strike and anti-armour capabilities.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) in a notification said that the US State Department has authorised a possible $45.7 million sale of the FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missile system. India has requested 100 Javelin missiles, one fly-to-buy round, 25 command-launch units, as well as training aids, simulation rounds, spare parts and full lifecycle support.

According to DSCA, the proposed sale will enhance India’s ability to counter current and future threats and further deepen the strategic partnership without altering the regional military balance.

In another notification issued the same day, the US also cleared the potential sale of M982A1 Excalibur precision-guided artillery projectiles to India for $47.1 million. The package includes up to 216 Excalibur rounds, associated fire-control components, propellants, technical assistance and broader logistical support.

Both systems are already in limited use by the Indian Army, and the proposed purchases are intended to replenish stocks, expand capacity and improve interoperability with US platforms.

"The intended outcome is to improve India’s first-strike accuracy and ensure the country is well-placed to meet current and future threats. This sale likewise “will not alter the basic military balance in the region," the notification said.

"Together, these two deals mark a significant step forward in India’s modernisation of its defensive fire-power and mobility, aligned with its objective to strengthen deterrence and homeland defense," the notification further added.