India’s Ministry of Defense approved a $750 million deal for the purchase of 145 Ultra Light howitzers from Arlington, Virginia-based BAE Systems for the Mountain Strike Corps that defends India’s borders. Unlike traditional guns, these howitzers can be slung on helicopters and transported over difficult mountainous terrains.
According to the terms of the deal, 25 guns will be imported in a ready-to-use condition while the other 120 will be assembled and tested in the country.
Earlier this year, in a major boost to the Make in India initiative, BAE announced it would establish an assembly, integration & test facility for the M777 ultra lightweight howitzer in India, reports the International Business Times.
“The facility is a fundamental part of the M777 production line. A domestic Assembly, Integration and Test facility will enable the Indian Army to access maintenance, spares and support for the M777 locally,” BAE said in a statement released in February.
