Marking a significant step in strengthening the US-India strategic partnership, the Biden administration has approved the sale of MH-60R Multi-Mission Helicopter equipment, ongoing support, and related systems to India. The deal, valued at approximately $1.17 billion, includes advanced capabilities to enhance India’s defense infrastructure.
On December 2, 2024, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified the US Congress of the required certification for the sale.
As outlined in the DSCA’s statement, the package will provide India with 30 Multifunctional Information Distribution System-Joint Tactical Radio Systems (MIDS-JTRS). Additionally, it includes a range of non-major defense equipment (non-MDE) such as advanced data transfer systems, external fuel tanks, AN/AAS 44C(V) forward-looking infrared (FLIR) systems, operator machine interface assistants, spare containers, facility design and support, as well as support and test equipment.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to strengthen the United States-India strategic relationship and improving 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 statement added.
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According to the statement, the proposed sale aims to enhance the Government of India’s ability to counter current and future threats by strengthening its anti-submarine warfare capabilities. India is well-prepared to integrate this equipment and related services into its armed forces without difficulty. Furthermore, the sale will not disrupt existing military balance in the region.
Lockheed Martin Rotary and Mission Systems, based in Owego, NY, will serve as the primary contractor for the deal. The purchaser generally seeks offsets, which will be determined through negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.
The statement noted that the “Implementation of this sale will require travel of up to twenty U.S. Government or up to twenty-five contractor representatives to the Government of India on a temporary basis for program technical support and management oversight.”
