The US State Department has approved a potential $131 million defense sale to India, featuring maritime domain awareness equipment and software, at a time of heightened tensions between New Delhi and Islamabad. The package includes SeaVision software, technical training, remote support, and logistics services, with Hawkeye 360 named as the principal contractor.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the sale will bolster India’s maritime situational awareness and strategic capabilities without altering the military balance in the region or involving US troop deployment. The deal, the agency said, aligns with US foreign policy goals by strengthening ties with a key South Asian partner.
Also Read: US Pushes For Calm As India-Pakistan Tensions Rise
The announcement has drawn criticism from Pakistan, which fears the agreement could embolden India’s regional posture amid fresh hostilities following the April 22 Pahalgam attack. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has conveyed concerns directly to US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, urging Washington to help de-escalate the situation.
While the US insists the sale supports stability in the Indo-Pacific and South Asia, Islamabad remains wary, particularly as it enforces countermeasures like restricting Indian diplomats and reaffirming its stance on water-sharing agreements.
