On May 18, 2026, the United States approved a military support package for India, totaling $428.2 million. This package encompasses two key components: follow-on support for AH-64E Apache helicopters and sustainment support for the M777A2 ultra-light howitzers. The announcement was made by the US State Department, emphasizing the importance of this deal in strengthening defense ties between the two nations.
The larger segment of the support package is dedicated to the M777A2 ultra-light howitzers, valued at approximately $230 million. The notification from the State Department indicated that India had requested long-term sustainment support for these howitzers, which includes a comprehensive suite of services such as spare parts, training, technical assistance, and logistics support. The principal contractor for this aspect of the deal is BAE Systems.
- Apache helicopter support services — valued at $198.2 million, this involves engineering and technical support for the Apache fleet.
- Enhanced US-India strategic relationship — the sales aim to bolster defense cooperation and regional stability.
- Improved defense capabilities — these systems will help India address current and future security threats effectively.
In addition to the howitzer support, the deal also includes follow-on services for Apache helicopters. This segment will provide India with essential sustainment services, including logistics and personnel training, with Boeing and Lockheed Martin as the main contractors. The State Department reiterated that these military sales align with the broader strategic goals of the US in the Indo-Pacific region, underlining the importance of India as a major defense partner.
The US government highlighted that these proposed sales would enhance India’s ability to manage regional threats and reinforce its homeland defense. Importantly, the notifications specified that the military balance in the region would not be disrupted and that India would seamlessly integrate these advanced systems into its armed forces. This approval comes at a time when defense collaboration between the US and India has intensified, characterized by increased arms sales, joint military exercises, and technology transfers.
