The US has approved the sale of a support package for Apache attack helicopters worth $198 million

A view of the AH-64E Apache helicopter. The US has approved the possible sale of support services and related equipment for Apache helicopters to India at an estimated cost of $198.2 million. | Photo credit: The Hindu

The US State Department has approved a possible foreign military sale to India for follow-on support and related equipment for AH-64E Apache attack helicopters at an estimated cost of $198.2 million.

According to a notification issued by the US State Department, India has requested support services for the Apache helicopter along with the US government and engineering, technical and logistical assistance provided by the contractor. The package also includes technical data, publications, staff training and other related program management elements.

The proposed sale aims to improve India’s operational readiness and long-term sustainment capabilities of its Apache helicopter fleet, which forms a key component of the Indian Armed Forces’ combat capabilities.

The US government said the proposed sale would support its foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the strategic partnership with India, which it described as a major defense partner and an important force for political stability, peace and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asian regions.

Washington noted that the support package will improve India’s ability to counter current and future threats, strengthen homeland defense and strengthen deterrence against regional challenges. She added that India would have no difficulty in integrating support services and equipment into its armed forces.

The US administration also said the proposed sale would not change the basic military balance in the region and would not adversely affect US defense readiness.

The main suppliers of the program will be Boeing and Lockheed Martin. Boeing is headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, while Lockheed Martin is headquartered in Orlando, Florida.

Published – 19 May 2026 10:00 AM IST