The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress that India might buy 10 Boeing-built C-17 airlifters under a potential foreign military sales agreement that would include associated equipment—including 45 Pratt & Whitney F117-PW-100 engines, parts, and logistical support for a potential cost of $5.8 billion, if India exercises all options. According to the April 26 DSCA release, the C-17s would likely replace existing, older airlifters and would “enable India to provide significantly increased humanitarian assistance and disaster relief support within the region.” India Today reports the Indian Air Force had wanted to buy 20 but settled for 10 and would use them to replace elderly Il-76s. The Financial Express reports the C-17 purchase is part of a program that would also replace elderly AN-32s. (Also see Embassy of US–New Delhi release)
In a nighttime ceremony contrived to continue concealment of many of its features, the new B-21 bomber rolled out of Northrop Grumman's Palmdale, Calif. plant Dec. 2. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin said the aircraft's advanced technology represents "deterrence, the American way."