WASHINGTON - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles - Extended Range (JASSM ER) and related equipment for an estimated cost of $235 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 eighty (80) Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles - Extended Range (JASSM ER) (AGM-158B with telemetry kits and/or AGM-158B-2 configurations). Also included are missile containers and support equipment; JASSM training missiles; weapon system support; spare parts, consumables, accessories, and repair/return support; integration and test support and equipment; personnel training; software delivery and support; classified and unclassified publications and technical documentation; transportation; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, studies and surveys; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $235 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 region. 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 Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing advanced, long-range strike systems for employment from Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) air platforms including, but not limited to, the F/A-18F Super Hornet and F-35A Lightning II. 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.
(DSCA)