India Wants US Mk 54 Torpedoes for P-8I Neptune Maritime Patrol Aircraft

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Friday of a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of India for 32 MK-54 All-Up-Round Lightweight Torpedoes and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $86 million.

The Government of India has requested a possible sale of 32 MK-54 All-Up-Round Lightweight Torpedoes, 3 recoverable exercise torpedoes, 1 training shape, containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, transportation, U.S. Government and contractor representatives’ technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support.

The estimated cost is $86 million.

This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the U.S.-India strategic relationship and to improve the security of a key important partner which continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in South Asia.
India intends to use the torpedoes on its Indian Navy P-8I Neptune maritime patrol aircraft, which will provide enhanced capabilities in effective defense of critical sea lines of communication.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The prime contractors will be The Boeing Company in St. Louis, Missouri, and a yet to be identified U.S. torpedo contractor. Details of a potential offset agreement in connection with the proposed sale are not known as of the date of this transmittal.

Implementation of this proposed sale will require U.S. Government and contractor representative in-country visits on a temporary basis for technical reviews, support, and oversight.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.