Key Takeaways
- US approves $93 million sale of Javelin anti-tank missiles and Excalibur artillery shells to India
- Deals strengthen strategic partnership amid ongoing trade negotiations
- Indian armed forces addressing long-standing deficiency in advanced anti-tank capabilities
The United States has formally approved two major defence deals with India, clearing the sale of advanced Javelin anti-tank missiles and precision Excalibur artillery munitions worth $93 million (approximately Rs 826 crore). This strategic move comes as both nations continue negotiations on broader trade agreements.
Strategic Partnership Strengthens
The Trump administration notified the US Congress about the Foreign Military Sale cases requested by India, stating the deals will support US foreign policy and national security objectives. The administration emphasized that India, as a major defence partner, remains crucial for political stability and economic progress across the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions.
This approval follows India’s recent $1 billion contract with General Electric for 113 F404 engines to power Tejas Mark-1A fighter jets. However, negotiations for six additional P-8I maritime patrol aircraft remain stalled due to pricing disagreements.
Excalibur Precision Munitions
The first deal involves 216 Excalibur tactical projectiles with associated equipment, valued at $47.1 million. These precision-guided artillery shells have proven effective in combat, with the Indian Army previously using them with M-777 ultra-light howitzers during Operation Sindoor in May.
“The Excalibur munitions, with a 40-km range, proved very effective. The fresh supply will replenish stocks,” an officer confirmed.
Javelin Anti-Tank Missiles
The second agreement covers 100 FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and 25 command launch units for $45.7 million. These shoulder-launched systems have a 4-km range and feature fire-and-forget capability. Both countries are also working toward finalizing a larger joint manufacturing project for Javelin systems in India.
Addressing Critical Capability Gaps
For over a decade, the Indian armed forces have faced significant shortages in shoulder, vehicle, and helicopter-launched anti-tank guided missiles. The military has been seeking third and fourth-generation ATGMs with enhanced range and armour-penetration capabilities.
In the absence of domestic alternatives, the Army and Indian Air Force have acquired limited numbers of Israeli Spike ATGMs in recent years. Meanwhile, the Defence Research and Development Organisation claims its indigenous man-portable ATGM with 2-3 km range is now fully ready and has undergone extensive field evaluation with day/night and top-attack capabilities.
