BAE Systems is producing ultra-lightweight howitzers for the Indian Army as a result of a Foreign Military Sales deal between the Indian and U.S. governments.

The Department of Defense contact is for a total of 145 M777 gun systems and worth $542 million, the company said.

"We look forward to working with the Indian Army and providing the only battle-proven 155mm ultra-lightweight howitzer in the world," Joe Senftle, vice president and general manager of Weapon Systems at BAE Systems said. "The M777 will give the Indian Army superior artillery capability.

"M777 will remain at the forefront of artillery technology well into the future through the use of technical insertions, long-range precision guided munition developments, and flexible mobility options."

The 155mm howitzer weighs 9,300 pounds and can fire as many as five rounds per minute.

BAE Systems said its work on the contract begins immediately and will be performed by BAE Systems and its suppliers across Britain, the United States and India.

Deliveries of the howitzers are to begin this June.