The United States has approved Canada’s request to purchase Joint Direct Attack Munition tail kits and related elements.
On Tuesday, the Department of Defense’s Defense Security Cooperation Agency issued a press release to announce the potential foreign military sale valued at $96.4 million.
The proposed acquisition was approved after the Department of State determined it would not negatively affect U.S. defense readiness or alter military balance in the region.
The sale also supports Canada’s capability to meet current and future threats.
Boeing, the manufacturer of the JDAM tail kits, will serve as the principal contractor of the FMS.
The JDAM tail kits are designed to convert unguided free-fall bombs into “smart weapons.” The technology is equipped with a GPS/inertial navigation system on its tail to deliver near-precision strikes.
Boeing offers add-on options to provide additional capabilities. For instance, installing a laser sensor enables JDAM to pursue moving, relocatable and maritime targets. Meanwhile, JDAM Extended Range expands the weapon’s standoff range to over 40 miles.
The Canadian government’s order includes 790 JDAM tail kits, laser-illuminated target detectors, spare and repair parts, contractor engineering and technical support, and logistics services.
The State Department also previously approved Ottawa’s initial order of 285 JDAM tail kits valued at $16.1 million.