The USA has approved the sale of 53 MK-54 torpedoes to India to enhance its naval capabilities.

Science and Technology

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) of the United States has approved the sale of 53 MK-54 lightweight torpedoes, known as All-Up Rounds (AURs), to India. These torpedoes are valued at approximately USD 175 million (around Rs 14.7 billion).


      - The sale includes recoverable exercise torpedoes, air-launch accessories, spare parts, torpedo containers, and various technical support services.

      - The torpedoes are intended for use with India’s MH-60R Seahawk helicopters to enhance naval capabilities.

      - This sale supports U.S. foreign policy goals aimed at strengthening the strategic partnership with India in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia.

Main Points:-   (i) The sale will involve the temporary deployment of up to 12 U.S. personnel and one contractor to India each year for training and technical support.

      (ii) This acquisition will strengthen India’s anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities by increasing the available weapons for the MH-60R helicopters.

(iii) 3. India’s first squadron of six MH-60R Seahawk helicopters was commissioned in March at INS (Indian Naval Ship) Garuda in Kochi, Tamil Nadu, for ASW and anti-surface warfare (ASUW).

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