India to Import US Artillery and Anti-Tank Systems

India is set to acquire advanced American artillery munitions and anti-tank missile systems in a move aimed at strengthening its military capabilities. The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale that includes Excalibur artillery projectiles and the Javelin anti-tank missile system, with a combined value of nearly $93 million.

The procurement comes amid India’s ongoing efforts to modernize its armed forces and respond effectively to regional security challenges. Excalibur munitions, used in the past during Operation Sindoor along the Line of Control, will provide Indian brigades with precision strike capabilities, while the Javelin system will enhance anti-tank operations.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified the US Congress of the proposed sale, which includes additional equipment such as fire control systems, technical assistance, training, spare parts, and lifecycle support. India has requested 216 M982A1 Excalibur projectiles, 100 Javelin rounds, one Javelin missile for training purposes, and multiple Javelin command launch units.

Officials indicate that the acquisition will not disrupt the military balance in the region. The sale also aligns with US strategic interests by strengthening the security of a major defense partner in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia.

This development follows a recent 10-year framework agreement between India and the US to deepen bilateral defense cooperation, signed on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting Plus. The announcement comes at a time when India is managing a delicate diplomatic balance between deepening trade and defense ties with the US and maintaining longstanding relations with Russia.

The deal underscores India’s commitment to modernizing its military while reinforcing strategic partnerships, signaling a focus on operational readiness and regional stability in a rapidly changing security environment.