Statement by U.S. Ambassador Verma on the M777 Howitzer Acquisition

Yesterday, India and the United States signed a landmark deal for 145 M777 howitzer artillery guns.  Indian industry will partner with the U.S. defense subsidiary of BAE Systems to locally assemble, integrate, and test the howitzers, supporting Prime Minister Modi’s Make-in-India campaign.  This deal marks a major step forward in the U.S.-India defense relationship and supports jobs in both our countries.  As Major Defense Partners, the United States and India remain committed to enhancing military modernization efforts and building a security partnership based on trust, transparency, and shared interests.  The M777 is a state-of-the-art, lightweight howitzer that will provide the Indian Army with advanced capabilities.