US Secretary of State approves Sonobuoys Deal for India
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has authorized a potential foreign military sale of anti-submarine warfare Sonobuoys and related equipment to India, with an estimated cost of USD 52.8 million.
The Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), a division within the US Department of Defense, has provided the necessary certification and formally notified Congress of the proposed sale. The DSCA’s announcement outlines that the equipment will enhance India’s anti-submarine warfare capabilities.
This approval represents a significant step in strengthening defense relations between the United States and India, reflecting ongoing collaboration in military and security matters.
“The Government of India has requested to buy AN/SSQ-53G High Altitude Anti-Submarine Warfare (HAASW) Sonobuoys; AN/SSQ-62F HAASW Sonobuoys; AN/SSQ-36 sonobuoys; technical and publications and data documentation; US government and contractor engineering and technical support; and other related elements of logistics and program services and support. The estimated total cost is USD 52.8 million,” the agency stated.
The proposed $52.8 million sale of anti-submarine warfare Sonobuoys to India aims to bolster US foreign policy and national security goals by strengthening the strategic partnership between the US and India.
This deal will enhance India’s ability to conduct anti-submarine operations from its MH-60R helicopters, supporting its defense against current and future threats. The sale is also expected to contribute to political stability, peace, and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia regions.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency, this equipment will be seamlessly integrated into India’s military and will not disrupt the regional military balance.
The principal contractor(s) will be Sparton Corporation, located in De Leon Springs, FL, or Undersea Sensor Systems Inc. (USSI), located in Columbia City, IN, or a combination of both. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale, it added.
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