US Approves Sale of 160 Javelin Light Anti-Tank Missiles to Australia
The US State Department has approved a potential $97.3-million sale of over 150 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units (LWCLU) and related equipment to Australia.
Canberra has requested 161 Javelin launchers, as well as training systems, spare parts, support equipment, and technical services.
The State Department has notified Congress of the approval.
“The proposed sale will enhance Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its advanced surface-fired munitions capabilities and increasing its capability to deter adversaries,” the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated.
“This enhanced capability will protect Australia and local allied land forces and will significantly improve Australia’s contribution to coalition anti-armor capability.”
The principal contractors for the potential sale are the Javelin Joint Venture, comprising RTX and Lockheed Martin, with no offset agreement proposed.
Javelin Lightweight
The Javelin LWCLU is 30 percent smaller and 25 percent lighter than the current Block I Command Launch Unit, while doubling target detection and recognition capability.
Its reduced weight improves transportability, while redesigned ergonomic hand grips provide greater comfort for soldiers in the field.
The anti-tank missile system is compatible with all Javelin munitions and can engage targets up to 4 kilometers (2.48 miles) away, a 60 percent increase over the previous variant.
Moreover, the unit provides day and night engagement capability, even in adverse weather and through battlefield obscurants such as smoke screens.
