US Clears Apache and M777 Support Deals for India

On 18 May 2026, the United States State Department approved two possible Foreign Military Sales to India with an estimated combined value of $428.2 million. The approvals were issued through separate congressional notifications by the Bureau of Political-Military Affairs.

Foreign Military Sales

Foreign Military Sales is a United States government programme for defence equipment, services, and training supplied to foreign governments. The programme is administered by the US government and involves congressional notification for proposed sales above specified financial thresholds.

M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers

The first package is valued at an estimated $230 million and covers long-term sustainment support for India’s M777A2 Ultra-Light Howitzers. The package includes ancillary items, spares, repair and return services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, and depot capability. BAE Systems is the principal contractor for this package.

AH-64E Apache Helicopters

The second package is estimated at $198.2 million and covers follow-on support services and related equipment for India’s AH-64E Apache helicopters. The package includes US government and contractor engineering support, technical support, logistics support, technical data, publications, and personnel training. Boeing and Lockheed Martin are the principal contractors for this package.

Important Facts for Exams

• The M777 is a 155 mm towed howitzer used by several armed forces for long-range artillery support.
• The AH-64E is the latest Apache variant in US Army service and belongs to the attack helicopter class.
• BAE Systems is a major defence company based in the United Kingdom.
• Boeing and Lockheed Martin are among the largest defence contractors in the United States.

India-US Defence Cooperation

India and the United States have signed multiple defence agreements covering logistics, communications, and interoperability. The two countries also conduct regular military exercises across the army, navy, and air force domains.