The United States has approved a potential $1.04 billion sale of AIM-120C and AIM 120-D Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles and related equipment to Australia.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency said ithe planned acquisition under the Foreign Military Sales program includes up to 200 missiles of each variant, containers, accessories, spare parts, software, classified documentation, repairs, and engineering and logistical services. RTX will supply the weapons and associated support as the principal contractor.
The U.S. Department of State determined that the deal aligns with Washington’s foreign policy and national security goals. It added that a well-equipped Australian defense force is essential to regional peace and stability and that Australia’s strategic role in the Western Pacific makes it a critical ally. The missile sale is also expected to enhance the survivability of Australian aircraft and reinforce Canberra’s self-defense capabilities.
Australia would integrate the new missile systems without difficulty and the arms transfer would not alter the region’s military balance, DSCA said.
The possible missile deal follows a recent string of major defense acquisitions between Australia and the U.S., including additional Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile-Extended Range munitions for its Super Hornets, Growlers and Lightning II jets, and more MK-48 heavyweight torpedoes for its Collins-class submarines. It also received its first two High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems as part of a billion-dollar investment to enhance its long-range strike capabilities.