US Clears Possible Sale Of Javelin Missiles, Excalibur Projectiles To India

Introduction

In a major boost to defence cooperation, the United States has approved a possible foreign military sale to India that includes Javelin anti-tank guided missiles and Excalibur precision-guided artillery projectiles. The decision marks another step forward in the growing strategic partnership between the two countries.

The approval was granted by the US State Department, which notified the US Congress of the potential sale under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program.

What India May Receive Under This Deal

The package cleared for India includes:

• FGM-148 Javelin Missiles – known for their “fire-and-forget” technology
• Raytheon Excalibur 155mm Artillery Projectiles – GPS-guided, high-precision ammunition
• Associated equipment, technical support, training, and spare parts

The exact quantity of weapons India might purchase has not been disclosed yet, as the deal still requires final negotiations between New Delhi and Washington.

Why These Weapons Matter for India

Javelin Missiles

Javelins are among the world’s most advanced anti-tank systems. They can:

• Destroy heavily armoured tanks
• Hit targets from above with their top-attack mode
• Lock onto targets automatically after launch
• Be carried by infantry troops without heavy machinery

For India, this significantly strengthens the Army’s anti-armour capabilities, especially along the northern borders.

Excalibur Projectiles

Excalibur rounds turn traditional artillery into a precision strike weapon. They can:

• Hit targets within a few metres of accuracy
• Reduce collateral damage
• Perform well in mountainous terrain
• Support long-range artillery fire

India has previously used Excalibur rounds during certain operations, and the Army has praised their accuracy.

A Boost to India–US Defence Partnership

The clearance reflects the deepening defence ties between the two nations. Over the last decade, India and the US have moved from being distant partners to close military collaborators.

This approval follows earlier major deals such as:

• MH-60 Romeo helicopters
• Apache attack helicopters
• C-130J and C-17 aircraft
• Predator/Reaper drone discussions underway

The US sees India as a key partner in the Indo-Pacific region, while India looks to diversify and modernise its defence equipment.

Next Steps Before Final Purchase

Although the sale has been “approved”, it is not final yet.

The next steps include:

1. Negotiations between the Indian government and US defence contractors
2. Final pricing and contract terms
3. Approval by both countries
4. Delivery and training process

Once these steps are completed, India will officially receive the weapons.

Why This Deal Comes at a Key Time

India is currently upgrading its defences amid tensions on multiple borders and an increasing need for modern equipment. Precision firepower and advanced missile systems give India a stronger deterrence capability.

The approval also signals America’s confidence in India as a strategic ally in the region.

Conclusion

The US move to clear the possible sale of Javelin missiles and Excalibur projectiles marks another milestone in India–US military cooperation. If the deal goes through, India will gain significant improvements in precision warfare and anti-tank capability, strengthening its overall defence readiness.