India could purchase 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers from United States 0808135

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Defence & Security News - India
 
 
Thursday, August 8, 2013 10:26 AM
 
India could purchase 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers from United States.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency of United States notified Congress Aug 2 of a possible Foreign Military Sale India of 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $885 million.
     

Soldiers from 3rd Battalion, 321st Artillery Regiment, 18th Fires Brigade (Airborne), fire an M777 howitzer during a brigade base piece live fire exercise Sept. 19 on Fort Bragg, N.C.
     

The Government of India has requested a possible sale of 145 M777 155mm Light-Weight Towed Howitzers with Laser Inertial Artillery Pointing Systems (LINAPS), warranty, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, maintenance, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. Government and contractor representatives’ technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $885 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the U.S.-India strategic relationship and to improve the security of an important partner which continues to be a for political stability, peace, and economic progress in South Asia.

India intends to use the howitzers to modernize its armed forces and enhance its ability to operate in hazardous conditions. India will have no difficulty absorbing these weapons into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alterthe basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will beBAE of Hattiesburg, Mississippi; Watervliet Arsenal of Watervliet, New York; Seiler Instrument Company of St Louis, Missouri; Triumph Actuation Systems of Bloomfield, Connecticut; Taylor Devices of North Tonawanda, New York; Hutchinson Industries of Trenton, New Jersey; and Selex, Edinburgh, United Kingdom. In accordance with the Indian Defense Procurement Procedure (DPP), it is anticipated that the vendor will be required to negotiate an offset contract with the government of India.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require annual trips to India involving up to eight (8) U.S. Government and contractor representatives for technical reviews/support, training, and in-country trials for a period of approximately two years.