The United States has approved a significant arms sale to India, valued at approximately USD 93 million. This deal includes 100 FGM-148 Javelin anti-tank missiles, 25 lightweight command launch units, and 216 M982A1 Excalibur precision-guided artillery rounds. The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has formally notified the US Congress about this proposed transfer.

The Javelin missile system, produced by RTX Corporation and Lockheed Martin, is a third-generation, shoulder-launched missile designed to target vehicles from above, where their armour is weakest. It features a soft-launch mechanism, allowing it to be fired from enclosed spaces. The Excalibur rounds are GPS-guided, enhancing the accuracy of artillery strikes while minimizing collateral damage.

The DSCA stated that the sale will support US foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the US-India strategic relationship. It aims to enhance India's capabilities to address current and future threats, contributing to political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions. The agency noted that India would have no difficulty integrating these systems into its armed forces.

The total cost breakdown includes USD 46 million for the Javelin systems and USD 47 million for the Excalibur rounds. The package also encompasses lifecycle support, operator training, and necessary refurbishing services for the launch units. The DSCA emphasized that this sale would not disrupt the military balance in the region.

The US Congress now has a review period to raise any objections before the sale can be finalized. This arms deal is seen as a crucial step in bolstering India's defense capabilities and enhancing its strategic partnership with the United States.