India, US sign deal for Javelin anti-tank missiles

New Delhi: The Indian Army has signed a deal to purchase Javelin anti-tank guided missiles from the US under a government-to-government initiative. The $45.7 million deal is to acquire over 100 missiles, which will be delivered on a fast-track basis.

The US Embassy in Delhi welcomed the signing of the Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) for the purchase through the US Foreign Military Sales process. "The milestone reflects the enduring partnership between the US and Indian Armed Forces and opens the door for future collaboration to acquire over 100 of the missiles that will be delivered on a fast-track basis between the US and Indian defence industries," the statement read.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor also welcomed the agreement, saying it reflects the growing defence partnership between the two nations. "The Javelin agreement demonstrates the depth of US support for the Indian Army and creates new opportunities for our defence industries to work together. We see tremendous potential for future cooperation that strengthens the defence industrial bases of both countries," he said. The missiles are manufactured by a joint venture between US defence majors RTX and Lockheed Martin. The medium-range, fire-and-forget anti-tank guided missile is used by the US Army, Marine Corps and several nations across the world. It is designed to be used against both armoured vehicles and fortified positions.