The Department of State has approved the potential sale of Surveillance Towed Array Sensor System Expeditionary mission systems and related equipment to the Australian government.

The deal, worth an estimated $207 million, includes related equipment, services, training and logistic elements that are required to support the program.

As the principal contractor, Lockheed Martin will provide the SURTASS-E mission systems to Australian vessels of opportunity. Representatives from the company and the U.S. government will exercise technical oversight and program reviews as needed.

According to a notice from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency website, the proposed sale will support the two countries’ national security objectives as well as reinforce shared maritime security.

“The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability” in the Western Pacific region, the notice said.

“It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.”