Washington greenlights $1.17B helicopter deal with India

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of India for MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopter equipment, follow-on support, and related logistics at an estimated cost of $1.17 billion.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale.

India has requested to purchase thirty Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS) as part of this deal. In addition to these items, the sale also includes advanced data transfer systems, external fuel tanks, AN/AAS 44C(V) forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems, and an operator machine interface assistant. The package covers spare parts, facility study and design, support and test equipment, munitions, intermediate and depot-level repair capabilities, communications gear, software development and support, and Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems. Other aspects of the sale include personnel training, engineering, technical and logistics support, and the involvement of U.S. Navy Supply Systems Command (NAVSUP) for repair capabilities and performance-based logistics.

The estimated total program cost is $1.17 billion, and it is designed to support the United States’ foreign policy and national security objectives by reinforcing ties with India, a major defense partner. India continues to play a critical role in maintaining political stability and economic progress across the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions. Strengthening the strategic partnership with India through this sale aligns with U.S. efforts to maintain regional security.

The proposed sale is expected to enhance India’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities, providing a stronger deterrent against current and future threats in the region. The Indian government is not anticipated to face difficulties in absorbing the new equipment and services into its armed forces.

“This sale will improve the Government of India’s capability to deter current and future threats by upgrading anti-submarine warfare capabilities,” stated a U.S. official. The MH-60R helicopters, with their advanced systems, are known for their versatility and effectiveness in maritime operations, particularly in anti-submarine warfare and search-and-rescue missions.

Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, based in Owego, New York, will serve as the principal contractor for the sale. While offset agreements are common, any offset details will be negotiated between the Government of India and the contractor.

Implementation of this sale is expected to require the travel of up to twenty U.S. Government or contractor representatives to India temporarily, providing technical support and management oversight for the program. Importantly, the U.S. Department of Defense has confirmed that the sale will not negatively impact U.S. defense readiness.

The deal marks another step in the growing defense collaboration between the United States and India, aimed at enhancing the capabilities of a key regional ally and bolstering stability in a strategically vital part of the world.