The United States has approved the Czech Republic’s request to purchase Hellfire missiles and advanced precision kill weapon systems. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said Congress has been notified about the potential foreign military sale, estimated to cost $138.26 million.
The decision was made after the Department of State determined that the acquisition would not harm the United States’ defense readiness. Instead, the transaction will enhance regional deterrence and enable the Czech Republic, a NATO ally, to bolster its national security.
Prague plans to purchase 200 Hellfire subsonic missiles, capable of air-to-air and air-to-ground attacks and defeat helicopters and tanks using lasers for precision strikes. It also wants to order 600 units of Advanced Precision Kill Weapon System II, training and technical services, and support equipment. The AH-1Z Viper and UH-1Y Venom helicopters will carry the weapons.
DCSA named Lockheed Martin and BAE Systems as principal contractors for the proposed FMS.
In April, Lockheed secured a $483 million follow-on contract from the U.S. Army to produce Hellfire and Joint-Air-to-Ground Missiles for multiple customers, including JGAMs for Czechia’s attack helicopters.