In a move underscoring deepening defence ties between Washington and New Delhi, the United States has approved a potential foreign military sale worth approximately USD 131 million to bolster India’s maritime security across the Indo-Pacific. The announcement, made public on Wednesday by the U.S. Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), marks another chapter in the two nations’ steadily expanding strategic partnership.
Under the proposed agreement, India would acquire Hawkeye 360’s SeaVision maritime domain awareness software, along with requested software enhancements, remote analytic support and documentation access. The package also includes deployment of a Technical Assistance Field Team (TAFT) for hands-on training, as well as long-term program and logistics support. According to the DSCA, the total deal value is estimated at USD 131 million, and Congress was formally notified on Wednesday of the pending sale.
.@StateDept 🇺🇸 authorizes a Foreign Military Sales #FMS case for 🇮🇳 #India to purchase Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness software and related equipment for an estimated cost of $131 million. #FMSUpdate – https://t.co/mtIn77bB0r pic.twitter.com/KymVetlmt0
— Political-Military Affairs, US Dept of State (@StateDeptPM) April 30, 2025
“The State Department has determined to approve a possible Foreign Military Sale to India of Indo-Pacific Maritime Domain Awareness and related equipment for an estimated cost of USD 131 million,” the DSCA statement read. It further noted that this sale “will improve India’s capability to meet current and future threats by bolstering its maritime domain awareness, analytical capabilities, and strategic posture.”
Observers say the new software suite—designed to integrate, process and display data from satellites, coastal radars and other sensors—will significantly sharpen India’s ability to track vessels and detect unusual maritime activity. “Having real-time, fused maritime data is a game-changer for coastal security and search-and-rescue operations,” said an analyst at a New Delhi think tank. “It also sends a clear message about the durability of the U.S.-India strategic partnership.”
From Washington’s perspective, the sale supports both foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening a key defence partner in a region of growing geopolitical importance. According to the DSCA, “the proposed sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” and India “will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.” The principal contractor for the deal is Hawkeye 360, based in Herndon, Virginia.
As competition intensifies across the Indo-Pacific—from safeguarding vital sea lanes to countering non-state maritime threats—enhanced domain awareness is seen as a force multiplier. With this latest commitment, the United States and India appear poised to deepen their security collaboration, reinforcing a partnership that both sides describe as essential for regional stability and prosperity.
