US approves sale of over 1,500 Hellfire missiles to France

The US State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to the Government of France.

The deal involves AGM-114R2 Hellfire Missiles and related equipment, with an estimated cost of $203 million, according to a press release issued on July 7, 2023.

“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of France of AGM-114R2 Hellfire Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $203 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of France has requested to buy up to one thousand five hundred fifteen (1,515) AGM-114R2 Hellfire Missiles. Also included is technical assistance; non-standard books; publications; other Hellfire publications; integration support; and other related elements of logistical and program support.

The estimated total cost is $203 million. This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO Ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe.

The proposed sale will improve France’s capability to meet current and future threats by building its long-term defense capacity to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity in order to meet its national defense requirements. France will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces”, stated the official press release.

This proposed sale will enhance France’s defence capabilities, and help the nation meet current and future threats by building its long-term defence capacity to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. The notice asserted, “France will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”

The prime contractor for this potential sale is Lockheed Martin Corporation, based in Orlando, FL. The notice confirmed that “there are no known offset agreements in connection with this potential sale” and that the sale “will not require the assignment of U.S. Government or contractor representatives to France.”

The release also noted that there will be no adverse impact on U.S. defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale. It emphasized, “This notice of a potential sale is required by law. The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements.“