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The defence package comprises 100 FGM-148 Javelin missiles, 25 lightweight command launch units, and 216 Excalibur precision artillery rounds. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has officially notified the US Congress. The approval underscores the continuity of India–US military cooperation.
In a significant boost to India–US defence ties, Washington has approved two major foreign military sales to New Delhi worth a combined $93 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced after formally notifying the US Congress.
According to the agency, the first package-valued at $45.7 million—includes the Javelin FGM-148 missile (fly-to-buy) and 25 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU) or upgraded Javelin Block 1 CLUs. The Javelin system, famed for its fire-and-forget capability and operational success in recent global conflicts, is expected to enhance India's infantry anti-armour capacity across diverse terrains.
Both nations are expected to advance collaboration on co-development of defence technologies, maritime domain awareness, and interoperability
The Javelin systems, co-produced by RTX and Lockheed Martin, enable infantry forces to engage armoured targets at long ranges with exceptional accuracy. Javelin –across the variation and generation-- is regarded asthe world's most advanced shoulder-launched anti-tank weapon.
The second sale package approves a potential purchase of M982A1 Excalibur precision-guided 155mm artillery projectiles and associated equipment for an estimated $47.1 million. India has requested up to 216 Excalibur rounds, which are known for GPS-guided accuracy and extended range, significantly improving the Indian Army's precision-strike capabilities in high-altitude and contested border environments.
Excalibur rounds can strike within 2–5 meters of the intended target. Also, depending on the variant, Excalibur can reach 40–50 km, significantly extending the artillery's reach. This gives the Army the ability to hit deep enemy positions without exposing its own units. Because of its precision, Excalibur minimises unintended damage compared to traditional unguided artillery shells. This is especially valuable in urban operations or along sensitive borders.
For the Indian Army, Excalibur is also compatible with numerous modern 155mm artillery systems, including the M777 Ultra-Light Howitzer and various self-propelled guns, enhancing flexibility across units.
DSCA noted that the Excalibur package will also include a range of non-Major Defence Equipment (non-MDE) items:
According to the US official, the ongoing proposal would "support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States, adding, "strengthening the defence capability of a strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific."
The approval underscores the continuity ofIndia–US military cooperation, which has expanded through high-level dialogues, joint military exercises, critical technology sharing, and landmark agreements, such as COMCASA and BECA, over the past decade.
The fresh approvals reflect Washington's confidence in New Delhi as a key regional security partner amid evolving strategic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific
In 2026, both nations are expected to advance collaboration on co-development of defence technologies, maritime domain awareness, and interoperability between their armed forces.
The latest sale packages add to a growing list of US-origin equipment in India's arsenal, from P-8I maritime patrol aircraft and Apache helicopters to M777 howitzers.
Additionally, India is also acquiring MQ-9B high-altitude, long-endurance (HALE) drones from General Atomics (GA), a leading US-based defence equipment manufacturer. India agreed to procure 31 MQ-9B armed drones at an estimated cost of $3.99 billion, and the first delivery is expected by 2029.
Analysts say the fresh approvals reflect Washington's confidence in New Delhi as a key regional security partner amid evolving strategic dynamics in the Indo-Pacific.
With Congressional clearance underway, India is expected to proceed with procurement timelines in alignment with its ongoing modernisation programmes for the Army and joint operational forces.
Manish Kumar Jha is a Consulting & Contributing Editor for SP's Aviation, SP's Land Forces and SP's Naval Forces and a security expert. He writes on national security, military technology, strategic affairs & policies.
