WASHINGTON (Diya TV) — The Biden administration has cleared a significant defense equipment sale to India, worth $1.17 billion. The sale includes advanced MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopters and related systems. The sale is meant to upgrade India’s defense capabilities, especially in anti-submarine warfare.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) officially informed Congress of the move, marking the latest step in deepening U.S.-India defense ties. The DSCA says the deal will enhance India’s maritime security and help the country to better deter current and emerging threats in the Indo-Pacific region.
The sale includes 24 MH-60R helicopters, intended to perform a range of missions, from anti-submarine warfare, search-and-rescue, surveillance, and more. Apart from that, the package includes 30 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS), as well as other high-tech stuff, such as forward-looking infrared systems, external fuel tanks, and advanced data transfer systems.
The principal contractor for the sale will be Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems. U.S. government officials and contractor representatives will travel to India to oversee implementation, conduct technical assessments, and provide support for training and integration to support the transaction.
This sale in defense is coming at a time when U.S.-India relations are becoming increasingly strategic, particularly in the context of regional security in the Indo-Pacific. The world’s largest democracy is perceived as a key partner to balance China’s increasing influence in the region. Through joint military exercises, arms sales, and shared security initiatives, the United States has been expanding its defense cooperation with India.
In recent years, India has focused on military modernization as part of its defense strategy, with special attention to naval capabilities in order to counter the increasing maritime threats. The MH-60R helicopters, also known as “Romeo” helicopters, will greatly improve India’s ability to track and neutralize submarines, thereby improving its overall maritime defense posture.
Though it marks a strengthening partnership, the deal is also evidence of the changing security dynamics in the Indo-Pacific. U.S. officials have stated that this sale is part of the larger effort to support India’s efforts at securing its maritime domain while stabilizing the region.
The approval of the sale follows years of strengthening bilateral defense ties, with U.S. defense exports to India rising dramatically in recent years. The deal is expected to be finalized in the coming months, barring any unforeseen Congressional objections.
