India moves closer to buying US Javelin missiles

US Ambassador to India Sergio Gor announced on Friday that India is considering purchasing the US-made Javelin anti-tank missile system, signaling a significant strengthening of defense ties between the two nations. Gor posted about the potential acquisition on X, noting it as "BIG news!" in his message.

This proposed purchase comes amid a broader push by both countries to expand defense cooperation. In July, Washington highlighted that the two nations are also deepening collaboration in civil nuclear energy, artificial intelligence, and other emerging technologies. Additionally, US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin emphasized the expanding partnership in a statement released on the same day.

The Javelin system, jointly developed by Lockheed Martin and RTX, is a portable anti-tank missile designed to engage armored targets. It has been extensively utilized by US and allied forces around the world. Gor stated that this potential acquisition could also open avenues for co-production opportunities between India and the United States as defense engagement between the two countries reaches unprecedented levels.

India's growing procurement of US defense equipment includes the approval of a $93 million sale in November 2025, which comprises up to 100 Javelin systems and 216 Excalibur guided artillery projectiles. India currently operates Excalibur ammunition with its M777 howitzers. The US and India signed a framework for a major defense partnership last year, aiming to enhance interoperability across land, sea, air, space, and cyberspace.

India has already acquired several US-made platforms, such as Apache and Chinook helicopters, C-17 and C-130J transport aircraft, P-8I maritime patrol aircraft, and M777 howitzers.