ET In the Classroom: M-777 Artillery guns

What are the M-777 artillery guns for?
The M-777 is one of the lightest artillery guns in the world that has been used in Iraq and Afghanistan. India needs them for its high-altitude borders with China and Pakistan. They can be transported by the Chinook helicopters that India is procuring.

How long has the procurement taken?
The deal has been underway since 2008 when India sent a formal request to the US to purchase the guns. Approval was received from the US government in 2009, valuing the deal at $647 million, which was revised to $694 million in 2013.

What is in it for the industry?
Manufacturer BAE Systems will set up facilities in India with the help of local partner Mahindra, which could involve investment of over $200 m. It will set up assembly, integration and testing facilities that would roll out guns in India, not only for the domestic contract but also for customers in Middle East, South America & Europe.