United States Clears $93 Million Defence Package For India Including Javelin Missiles And Excalibur Artillery Rounds

New Delhi: The United States has approved a significant defense package worth $93 million for India. This approval will allow New Delhi to purchase a new shipment of Javelin anti-tank missiles and Excalibur precision-guided artillery rounds. This deal further strengthens the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.

What does the package consist of?

This military package includes 100 FGM-148 Javelin missiles, 25 lightweight Command Launch Units (CLUs), and 216 Excalibur artillery rounds. The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified the US Congress of the proposed weapons transfer, as is required for any military sale.

Support tailored to India's needs

According to a DSCA statement, India's request for materials is not limited to weapons. It also includes lifecycle support for missiles and artillery rounds, safety checks, operator training, refurbishment services for launch units, and technical support necessary for full operational capability. The agency says the Indian armed forces will be able to easily integrate these systems into their existing infrastructure.

Strategic partnership will get a boost

The US believes this deal will strengthen India's defense capabilities and enhance its ability to address emerging threats in the region. The proposed sale will strengthen India's internal security capabilities as well as its ability to address potential threats in its border areas, the statement said.

Furthermore, the US clarified that the transaction will not impact the military balance in South Asia. Furthermore, the US government stated that it is unaware of any offset agreements associated with this deal; any such provisions will be negotiated separately between India and the companies.

Why are these weapons important?

Javelin missiles, manufactured by RTX and Lockheed Martin, give infantry the ability to accurately attack armored vehicles at long ranges. Among the world's most advanced shoulder-fired anti-tank weapons, these missiles use top-attack technology, striking the top of tanks where their armor is thinnest. Excalibur artillery rounds are equipped with a GPS-based guidance system, making artillery fire accurate and effective. India has used these rounds before, especially in situations where collateral damage must be minimized.

Congressional review process

The proposed sale will now undergo a US congressional review process. If there are no objections from Congress, the deal will officially move forward.

Global success of Javelin missile

Javelin missiles have proven their effectiveness on numerous battlefields in recent years, notably in Ukraine, where they destroyed a large number of Russian tanks. These missiles are used by many armies around the world and are considered highly reliable weapons in modern warfare.