US OKs $1.6B Tri-Nation Missile Sales to UK, Finland, Lithuania
The US government on Monday approved a potential $1.6 billion foreign military sale of missile systems to the UK, Finland, and Lithuania.
According to the announcement on the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) website, Britain has the largest package requested, with 3,000 AGM-179A Joint Air-to-Ground Missiles (JAGM) worth $957.4 million.
The JAGM is a precision-guided munition that provides an improved air-to-ground missile capability for rotary wing aircraft and drones. It is designed to neutralize high-value targets, whether stationary, moving, or relocatable on land or water.
Also included in the request are dummy missiles for training, as well as associated support services for integration, maintenance, and logistics.
The DSCA stated that the missiles will improve the UK’s ability to meet current and future threats and further enhance the country’s homeland defense.
Lockheed Martin will serve as the principal contractor if the deal goes through.
Missiles for Lithuania, Finland
The Finnish government has reportedly requested 150 AGM-88G Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles – Extended Range (AARGM-ERs) from Washington.
The total estimated cost of the possible sale is $500 million.
The weapons are expected to strengthen Helsinki’s self-defense capabilities and interoperability with the US and other allied forces.
In addition to the AGM-88G, the European nation wants dummy air training missiles, software training, spare parts, and technical and logistical support.
In a separate announcement, the DSCA said the state department has cleared Lithuania’s request to buy 36 AIM-120C-8 Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) from Raytheon.
Valued at $100 million, the foreign military sale would include one AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM Guidance Section, Common Munitions Built-In-Test Reprogramming Equipment, AIM-120 spare control sections and containers, and other accessories.
The DSCA said it has already notified Congress of the potential sale, with opposition highly unlikely because the three countries involved are all members of NATO.
