India to get Javelin missiles and Excalibur rounds in major US defence approval; heres why it is significant
The United States has approved two major defence sales worth 93 million dollars for India, clearing Javelin missile systems and Excalibur precision projectiles. The acquisitions will strengthen India's precision strike capability and bolster its preparedness across sensitive operational fronts.
New Delhi: India’s defence modernisation effort received a substantial boost this week as the United States approved two key military equipment packages worth a combined 93 million dollars. The fresh approvals, which include the Javelin Missile System and Excalibur precision projectiles, are likely to strengthen India’s preparedness along sensitive fronts and enhance the Army’s ability to conduct high accuracy operations.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency of the United States stated that the State Department has authorised a potential sale of the Javelin Missile System, valued at $ 45.7 million. India’s request covers 100 FGM-148 Javelin rounds, one FGM-148 missile for fly-to-buy evaluation, 25 Command Launch Units, simulation rounds, spares and full lifecycle support.
How is this significant for India's defence ecosystem
For India, the induction of the Javelin system is expected to add a significant layer of capability in countering armoured threats and improving infantry mobility in high altitude and forward areas. The Javelin is widely regarded for its fire and forget guidance and its ability to engage both tanks and hardened positions, making it particularly relevant along India’s northern military zones.
According to the agency, the proposed transfer would improve India’s ability to respond to both current and future security challenges in the region. The communication emphasised that the sale would support India’s broader defence planning while also strengthening the strategic partnership with Washington. The DSCA noted that the required certification has already been delivered and that Congress has been formally notified.
Second approval issued the same day
A second approval issued the same day authorises the potential sale of Excalibur M982A1 precision projectiles and associated systems valued at 47.1 million dollars. The package includes 216 guided projectiles, fire control elements, ancillary equipment and technical assistance from the United States government.
For India, Excalibur rounds represent an important upgrade for the Army’s artillery regiments. These GPS guided projectiles allow gunners to hit targets with high accuracy at extended ranges, a capability considered essential for mountain warfare and rapid response operations where precision is critical. Their integration is expected to support India’s ongoing efforts to modernise its artillery fleet and improve real time battlefield effectiveness.
The notification added, "The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. The proposed sale will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing precision capability equipment, which will increase first strike accuracy in its brigades.”