US Approves 6 M88A2 Hercules Heavy Vehicles To Australia

The US has approved sale of six BAE Systems’ M88A2 Hercules heavy recovery vehicles to Australia for $47 million on Wednesday.

The vehicles are expected to enhance Australia's capability to conduct heavy-ground operations and support the country's deterrent capabilities against regional threats.

Apart from the contract includes M88A2, Australia’s request includes seven force XXI battle command, brigade and below / blue force trackers, with AN/PSN-13(V) global positioning system and defence advanced GPS receivers, the US Defense Security Agency announced on 26 January.

The US will supply AN/VAS-5 driver vision enhancers, AN/VRC-92F with RT-1523F single channel ground and airborne radio systems, commander weapon station assemblies, remote thermal sights, radio harnesses, M239 grenade launchers and maintenance support devices.

The package approved by US Department of state also includes deepwater fording kits, spare and repairs parts, supply and test equipment, personnel training and training equipment, as well as publications and technical documentation and other related elements of logistics support.