The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress last week of the possible sale of 10 Boeing [BA] C-17 Globemaster aircraft to the Indian Air Force, the U.S. ambassador in New Delhi said in a recent statement.
U.S. Ambassador to India Timothy Roemer called the move a reflection of Washington’s commitment to share technology with New Delhi.
“The potential sale of C-17s strengthens the growing partnership between our two countries and demonstrates our enduring commitment to sharing the world’s best technology with India,” Roemer said.
He also pointed out economic benefits of the deal for both countries.
“This sale will…likely include significant job creation in both countries,” Roemer said. “India is a leading partner in our efforts to promote regional stability, peace and economic growth.”
Boeing has been counting on additional foreign sales of the cargo hauler to keep its production line in Long Beach, Calif., up and running as further domestic purchases seem in doubt. President Barrack Obama has called the program’s continued existence an example of wasteful defense spending because the Pentagon has said it has more than enough C-17s to fulfill its needs for decades to come. Congressional supporters of the program have forced additional purchases for several years running.
Notification of Congress is a required part of the U.S. Foreign Military Sales (FMS) process. DSCA told lawmakers of the pending India deal on April 22.
The C-17 has a maximum payload of some 75 tons. Unlike other aircraft of its size, it can land on 3,000-foot runways.
If New Delhi moves ahead with the purchase, the aircraft will take the place of the country’s aging Russian-made Ilyushin IL-76 fleet. The package of 10 airplanes, maintenance, training, spare parts, test and ground support equipment and logistical services are expected to cost, at most, approximately $5.8 billion. The support package is optional.
Australia, Canada, Qatar, the United Kingdom and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) also own C-17 fleets. A recent order from the United Arab Emirates is being filled.