The United States has given the green light to sell Javelin anti-tank missiles to India. These are the same missiles that have effortlessly dismantled massive Russian tanks during the Ukrainian war. America’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced this on Wednesday. The entire deal is estimated to be worth approximately 93 million dollars (around 7.8 billion Rupees).
Javelin Missile System – estimated cost around 45.7 million dollars.
Excalibur Precision-Guided Artillery Shells – estimated cost around 47.1 million dollars.
100 Javelin Missiles (FGM-148 Model)
25 Lightweight Command Launch Units (missile launchers)
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Source: aajtak
Simulators for training, spare parts, and complete support for training and maintenance.
216 shells for Excalibur that operate with GPS, ensuring pinpoint accuracy.
The Javelin is a portable (shoulder-fired) anti-tank guided missile. It is jointly produced by two major US companies – Lockheed Martin and RTX (formerly Raytheon).
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Source: aajtak
Fire and Forget:
Once the soldier launches the missile, they can move. The missile autonomously seeks out the target and attacks from above (top attack). The upper section of a tank is its most vulnerable, often leading to its destruction with a single strike.
Range: Can strike targets up to approximately 4 kilometers. Newer versions can reach even further.
Weight: Only 22 kg. A soldier can easily carry it on their shoulder, making it useful in mountainous regions.
Two Modes: Target from above or direct attack. It can also be used against bunkers or helicopters.
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Since 2022, the US has supplied thousands of Javelin missiles to Ukraine. Ukrainian soldiers used these to destroy hundreds of robust Russian T-72 and T-90 tanks. The effectiveness of these missiles has earned them the nickname "Tank Killer." Russian tanks fail to counter attacks from above, which is why they are garnering global admiration.
India's military already possesses some Javelin missiles, but acquiring new ones will bolster the stockpile. These missiles will be particularly useful for...
Strategic operations along the China and Pakistan borders.
Halting tank advances in mountainous areas (like Ladakh).
Empowering infantry soldiers, making them less fearful of enemy tanks.
The US has stated that this deal will further bolster India-US friendship, ensuring peace in the Indian Ocean and South Asia without disrupting regional power balance.
The US Congress has 30 days to respond. If there are no objections, the deal will be finalized. India is also contemplating future co-production of Javelins within its borders.
