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The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to India for long-term sustainment of M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers valued at an estimated $230 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said, adding that it has notified Congress of the possible deal.
The package covers non-major defense equipment and services including ancillary items, spare parts, repair-and-return support, training, technical assistance, a field service representative, depot capability, and other logistics and program support. The sustainment-focused sale does not add new artillery pieces to India’s inventory.
U.S. officials said the proposed support would advance American foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the strategic relationship with India, a major defense partner, and by reinforcing stability and deterrence in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia. The State Department also assessed that the sale would not alter the basic military balance in the region and that India would have no difficulty absorbing the services.
The principal contractor is BAE Systems, based in Cumbria, United Kingdom.
India has already inducted 155mm M777A2 howitzers under a 2016 agreement for 145 guns, chosen in part for their ultra-lightweight titanium construction that makes them well-suited for deployment in high-altitude and mountainous terrain. The systems are part of India’s broader effort to modernize its artillery and enhance rapid mobility along sensitive frontiers.
As with all U.S. Foreign Military Sales, the notification marks the start of a congressional review period; the scope and value of the deal can change during negotiations, and a finalized contract would follow only after approvals are complete.
