India set to get powerful anti-ship Harpoon missile after America approves $82 million deal

India’s million dollar deal with the States is a major development in ties between the two countries, with the foundation for it lain in 2016, when America recognised India as a "Major Defence Partner".

The US' Defence agency, the Pentagon, while approving the deal noted that the subcontinent would have no difficulties absorbing the Harpoon equipment into its forces due to the level of India’s current defensive capabilities.

As part of the $82 million purchase, India will receive one Harpoon Joint Common Test Set, a maintenance station; spare and repair parts, support, and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; personnel training. Also included are support services from the US Government and the contractor.

During the approval process, the Pentagon also said the move “will help strengthen the bilateral strategic ties and improve the security of a major defensive partner in the Indo-Pacific region,” in what could be interpreted as a safeguard against China’s advance into the Pacific.