US Approves 21 GMLRS Rocket Pods To France

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has approved sale of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) Unitary Rocket Pods and related support to France.

The estimated cost is $90 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

France had requested sale of 21 GMLRS Unitary Rocket Pods. The contract also includes GMLRS Quality Assurance Team (QAT), GMLRS publications, live fire data, software updates, and technical assistance. The total estimated value of MDE is $60 million. The overall total estimated value is $90 million.

This proposed sale will enhance the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by helping to improve the security of a NATO ally which has been, and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist France to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability.

France intends to use these missiles to expand its existing army architecture and improve its self-defense capabilities. France is a co-developer of the GMLRS and has operational requirements for additional missiles. France will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The US Army procured the GMLRS Unitary from Lockheed Martin. The sale of GMLRS Unitary will be from U.S. stock; therefore, Lockheed Martin will not be involved. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.