India Bolsters Naval Fleet with Rs 7,995 Crore US Deal

India signs a Rs 7,995 crore deal with the US for a five-year support package for its Seahawk helicopter fleet. This agreement includes comprehensive support and aligns with India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat vision, enhancing the operational capabilities of the Indian Navy's technologically advanced helicopters.

India has finalized a significant Rs 7,995 crore agreement with the United States, securing a five-year support package for the Indian Navy's fleet of 24 Seahawk helicopters. This strategic move underscores India's intention to bolster its naval capacities and ensure a high level of operational readiness.

The deal was inked amidst heightened tensions following US President Donald Trump's imposition of a 50% tariff on Indian goods in August. The letters of offer and acceptance (LOAs), signed under the US foreign military sales programme, cover a comprehensive sustainment package, including spare parts, technical support, and training.

This contract fulfills a prior agreement from February 2020, where India procured the MH-60R Seahawk helicopters, a maritime variant of the Blackhawk model. The Ministry of Defence highlights that this deal will foster indigenous development through Indian MSMEs and reduce reliance on the US, thereby supporting India's Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.

(With inputs from agencies.)