US approves major military deals with India and Belgium

The US State Department has approved a potential $198.2 million deal with India for the maintenance of AH-64E Apache combat helicopters.

According to a State Department statement, the package includes technical support, specialist training, logistical assistance, and documentation.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to strengthen the U.S.-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 proposed sale will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats, strengthen its homeland defense, and deter regional threats.  India will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

The principal contractor will be the Boeing Company, located in Arlington, Virginia; and Lockheed Martin, located in Orlando, Florida. There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale,” the statement said.

In addition, the United States has approved the possible sale of AGM-184 Joint Strike Missiles and related equipment to Belgium, valued at $236 million, including classified software as well as technical and logistical support.

By Jeyhun Aghazada