The U.S. Department of State has approved a potential sale of up to 150 Standard Missile 6 Block I missiles to Japan for an estimated $900 million. RTX will build the missiles at its Camden facility in Arizona as the primary contractor for the deal, which also includes MK 21 Mod 3 Vertical Launch System canisters, support equipment, and training and technical assistance.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the proposed foreign military sale aims to strengthen Japan’s defense capabilities and contribute to regional security in the Indo-Pacific. The missiles, to be deployed on Tokyo’s existing and future AEGIS-equipped warships, will enhance the Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force’s ability to address current and future threats, ensuring protection for Japan and its allied land forces, it added.
According to DSCA, the State Department determined that the sale also aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives as it aids a key ally in maintaining political stability and economic progress in the critical region.
The potential Foreign Military Sales deal follows recent approvals for Japan’s acquisition of RTX defense systems. These include AIM-120 Advanced Medium-Range Air-to-Air Missiles in a deal worth $3.64 billion and RIM-116E Rolling Airframe Missiles Block 2B for $360 million.