India signs Javelin deal with US, boosts defense cooperation

The Javelin system is manufactured by the Javelin Joint Venture, which includes RTX and Lockheed Martin. Credit: lockheedmartin.com

India on Friday (August 28, 2026) signed a Letter of Offer and Acceptance (LOA) with the US to acquire Javelin anti-tank guided missile systems through the US Foreign Military Sales route, marking a major step in the defense partnership between the two countries.

The missile system is being bought under emergency procurements awarded to the armed forces to augment critical operational capabilities after Operation Sindoor, defense sources said.

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The Indian Army is acquiring Javelin missiles in limited numbers. Under the emergency regime, the armed forces can purchase up to ₹300 million for each category of equipment.

Contract deliveries under the sixth tranche of extraordinary procurement (EP-6) are expected to begin by the end of 2026-27, sources said.

The US Embassy in Delhi welcomed the signing of the LOA, saying it demonstrates the growing depth of the US-India major defense partnership and paves the way for greater cooperation between the two countries’ defense industries.

“By signing the LOA, India becomes a customer of the Javelin system,” the embassy said.

The Javelin is a medium-range anti-tank guided missile designed to attack armored vehicles and fortified positions. Its fire-and-forget capability allows the operator to fire the missile and move to another location without having to guide it throughout flight.

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor said the agreement reflects a defense partnership that is “deepening, more capable and more consistent”. He said the agreement demonstrated US support for the Indian military and created new opportunities for cooperation between the two countries.

The Javelin system is manufactured by the Javelin Joint Venture, which includes RTX and Lockheed Martin. It is currently operated by the US Army, US Marine Corps and several international customers.

The US Embassy said the signing will facilitate discussions on mutually beneficial co-production and create additional opportunities to strengthen the defense industrial bases of India and the US.

The order takes on significance in the context of India’s efforts to rapidly strengthen its anti-armor capabilities after Operation Sindoor, while simultaneously deepening defense-industrial cooperation with the US.

Published – 28 Aug 2026 14:27 IST