NEW DELHI: In a massive defence boost for India, the United States has approved a possible $93 million arms sales deal which would help “strengthen homeland defense and deter regional threats”.The deal includes Javelin Missile System and related equipment for an estimated cost of $45.7 million and 216 M982A1 Excalibur tactical projectiles for $47.1 million.
“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to India of Javelin Missile System and related equipment for an estimated cost of $45.7 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress,” a report by Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said.“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Indian strategic relationship and to improve the security of a major defense partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions,” the report said.Earlier this year, the Army signed an agreement with UK-based Thales to procure the Light Weight Modular Missile (LMM) system, aimed at strengthening its air defence capabilities. LMM is a light, portable missile system that can be used in various operational zones, including high-altitude areas. It uses a laser beam–riding guidance method to deliver accurate strikes while keeping collateral damage low. The missile features a triple-effect warhead and a proximity fuse, making it capable of targeting aircraft, helicopters, UAVs and UCAVs — even those with low infrared signatures — at distances of over 6 km and in all-weather conditions.
