The United States has formally cleared a support package worth an estimated USD 482.2 million for India's AH-64E Apache attack helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers. The approval covers sustainment services and related equipment that will help ensure the long-term operational readiness of these key military platforms used by the Indian armed forces.

The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which manages the US Foreign Military Sales (FMS) programme, issued the notification in the Federal Register on June 17. The move comes after the US Department of State informed Congress on May 18 about the possible sale of support services and equipment for India's Apache helicopters and M777A2 howitzers.

The package focuses on long-term maintenance, logistics, training and technical assistance for both systems. These services are intended to improve operational efficiency and ensure that the platforms remain mission-ready for years to come.

According to the notification, India has requested long-term sustainment support for its fleet of M777A2 ultra-light howitzers. The support package includes spare parts, repair services, training, technical assistance, field service representatives, depot capability and other logistics-related support. The notification stated, "The following non-major defence equipment items will be included: ancillary items; spares; repair and return; training; technical assistance; field service representative; depot capability; and other related elements of logistics and programme support. The estimated total cost is USD 230 million."

The M777A2 howitzers were acquired by India from the United States through the Foreign Military Sales route. These artillery guns play an important role in strengthening the Indian Army's firepower, especially in mountainous and high-altitude regions where mobility is critical. Their lightweight design allows them to be transported more easily to difficult terrain, making them valuable assets for operational deployment.

In a separate notification, the US Department of Defence confirmed that India has also requested a sustainment package for its AH-64E Apache attack helicopters. The proposed package includes engineering support from the US government and contractors, technical and logistics assistance, technical data, publications, personnel training and other programme support services. The estimated value of the Apache support package stands at USD 198.2 million.

The Apache helicopters are among the most advanced attack helicopters operated by the Indian armed forces. They are used for precision strikes, battlefield support and a range of combat missions. Continued maintenance and technical support are considered essential to keep the helicopters fully operational and capable of meeting future defence requirements.

The Department of Defence identified Boeing Company and Lockheed Martin as the principal contractors for the Apache support programme. For the M777A2 howitzer support package, the principal contractor will be BAE Systems, based in Cumbria in the United Kingdom.

The US government said the proposed sales are in line with its foreign policy and national security objectives. Officials stated that the support packages would further strengthen the strategic partnership between the United States and India while enhancing India's defence preparedness.

According to the Department of Defence, the assistance will help India address present and future security challenges. It noted that the package would strengthen India's homeland defence capabilities and contribute to deterring regional threats. The department also expressed confidence that India would be able to effectively integrate and utilise the equipment and services included in the agreements.

The notification further stated that the proposed sales would not alter the existing military balance in the region. US officials also said that the transactions would have no negative impact on American defence readiness.

Overall, the approvals focus on ensuring continued operational support for India's Apache helicopters and M777A2 ultra-light howitzers. Through maintenance services, logistics assistance, training programmes and technical backing, the package aims to enhance the long-term effectiveness of two important platforms that play a significant role in India's defence capabilities.