BAE systems, the manufacturer of M777 ultra light weight howtizer has welcomed the US-India strategic agreement for a FMS

Gaining ground in obtaining latest weapon technology, Indian defence has once again shown keen interest in strengthening USIndia strategic relations through a Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to acquire the M777 155 mm Light Weight Towed Howitzer. The US Congress received a notification by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of a possible FMS to India of obtaining 145 M777 howitzers with Laser Inertial Artillery Pointing Systems (LINAPS) worth approximately $647 million (Rs 2,990 crore). The total cost also includes associated parts, equipment, training and logistical support for a complete package of the M777.

In its notification to the US Congress, the DSCA indicated that the sale would increase the ability of Indian and US troops to operate together. “The howitzers will assist the Indian Army to develop and enhance standardisation and to improve interoperability with US soldiers and marines who use the M777 as their primary means of indirect fire,” the DSCA stated, emphasising that US defence would not face any adverse impact in readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

BAE Systems, the manufacturer of howtizer and the possible acquirer of the FMS has expressed great enthusiasm. “BAE Systems welcomes the news of the US Congressional notification of a potential FMS purchase of the M777 ultra light weight howitzer by the Government of India,” shares Guy Douglas, spokesperson, BAE Systems. “The M777 is, by some considerable margin, the lightest 155mm howitzer in the world, and the only system proven in battle. The procurement of M777 should be seen as a victory in procuring the best equipment for the Indian Army,” he adds.

M777 Howitzer Up-Close

India reportedly did not have a hard time deciding on BAE systems, considering that the M777 howitzer is already in service with the US Army and US Marine Corps in Afghanistan and Iraq. Significant work share would be completed in India by the Mahindra and BAE Systems joint venture company, which will eventually become an Indian centre of excellence for artillery systems.

“BAE Systems’ intention is to develop, over time, an artillery centre of excellence in India that covers not just manufacturing but testing, development and support. The towed and ultra light weight systems currently in the news in India represent just some of BAE Systems’ artillery solutions - so there are many opportunities coming up to start building capability in our JV company with Mahindra. In terms of M777, FMS is a government to government system and the details of any deal would be a matter for governments, but BAE Systems stands by to fulfil their wishes,” explains BAE Systems spokesperson.