New Delhi, Jun 23: The United States has announced a $230 million sustainment package for India’s M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, aimed at ensuring long-term operational readiness of the artillery systems.
The package, part of a larger $482.2 million deal that also covers Apache AH-64E helicopters, includes spares, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, depot capability, and logistics support.
US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor confirmed that the deal is “ready to be concluded,” highlighting the growing defence partnership between the two nations. He emphasized that the package will strengthen India’s artillery capabilities, particularly in mountainous and high-altitude regions where the lightweight M777 is critical.
BAE Systems (UK) has been identified as the principal contractor for the sustainment programme, ensuring that India’s fleet of M777A2 howitzers remains combat-ready for rapid deployment.
Officials noted that the sustainment package reflects Washington’s commitment to supporting India’s defence modernization and enhancing interoperability between the armed forces of both countries.
Alongside the howitzer deal, the US also announced a $198.2 million sustainment package for Apache helicopters, bringing the combined support package to $482.2 million.
Defence analysts said the announcement underscores the deepening Indo-US strategic partnership and aligns with broader Indo-Pacific stability goals, even as India continues to balance ties with other defence partners.
