US approves $175 million deal for MK-54 torpedoes for India's MH-60R Helicopters

Source : IgMp Bureau

The US State Department has given the green light for a potential sale of MK-54 MOD 0 Lightweight Torpedoes to India, valued at an estimated $175 million. This announcement, made by the Pentagon, is part of a broader package of potential military sales to Italy, India, and Romania, with a total value of $965 million.

India’s portion of the deal includes 53 MK-54 MOD 0 torpedoes, along with exercise weapons, air launch accessories, spare parts, and support services. These torpedoes are meant to enhance the capabilities of the Indian Navy's MH-60R helicopters, which are specifically designed for anti-submarine warfare (ASW) and anti-surface warfare (ASUW) operations.

According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), this sale aligns with US foreign policy and national security interests by bolstering the US-India strategic partnership. It also strengthens the defense capabilities of a key partner. India already operates MK-54 torpedoes and has 24 MH-60R helicopters on order to equip its expanding naval fleet.

MK-54 Lightweight Torpedo

This agreement underscores the growing defense ties between the US and India. The MK-54 torpedo, a crucial asset for anti-submarine warfare, will significantly enhance the Indian Navy’s presence in the Indian Ocean region. The sale may be seen as a strategic response to China’s growing naval activity in the area.

Besides the India deal, the US has also approved potential sales of Sentinel radar systems to Romania, valued at $110 million, and an electronic attack mission system to Italy, worth $680 million. The primary contractors for these agreements are expected to be RTX Corp and BAE Systems, respectively.

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