WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles-Extended Range and related equipment for an estimated cost of $405 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
The Government of Australia has requested to buy up to one hundred (100) Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) with global positioning system (GPS) precise positioning system (PPS) provided by Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code; up to twenty-four (24) AGM-88G AARGM-ER guidance sections (spares); and up to twenty-four (24) AGM-88G AARGM-ER control sections (spares). The following non-MDE items will also be included: missile containers; component parts and support equipment; repair; software (classified and unclassified); publications (classified and unclassified); training (classified and unclassified); transportation; U.S. Government and contractor engineering support; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $405 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.
The proposed sale will improve the Government of Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing the capability to suppress and destroy land or sea-based radar emitters associated with enemy air defenses, thereby improving survivability of tactical aircraft. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.
The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor will be Northrop Grumman Systems, located in Falls Church, VA. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
(DSCA)
