US Approves $98M Sale of Harpoon Block II Missiles, RAM Missiles and MK 54 Torpedoes To Mexico

The US Department of State on Friday approved a $98.4 million sale RGM-84L Harpoon Block II surface launched missiles, Block II Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) tactical missiles and MK 54 Mod 0 lightweight torpedoes to Mexico.

"The Government of Mexico has requested to buy six RGM-84L Harpoon Block II surface launched missiles, 23 Block II Rolling Airframe Missile (RAM) tactical missiles and 6 MK 54 Mod 0 lightweight torpedoes," the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a release on Friday.

The sale also includes 8 MK 825 Mod 0 RAM Guided Missile Round Packs (GMRP) tri-pack shipping and storage containers; RAM Block 2 MK 44 Mod 4 Guided Missile Round Pack (GMRP); 2 MK 32 Surface Vessel Torpedo Tubes (SVTT) triple tube launchers; 250 rounds of AA98 25 mm high explosive and semi-armor piercing ammunition; 750 rounds A976 25mm target practice and tracer ammunition; 480 rounds of BA22 57mm high explosive programmable fuze ammunition; 960 rounds of BA23 57mm practice ammunition; containers; spare and repair parts; support and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; U.S. Government and contractor representatives’ technical assistance; engineering and logistics support services; installation services; associated electronics and hardware to control the launch of torpedoes; and other related elements of logistics and program support, the statement said.

Mexico intends to use the weapon systems on its Mexican Navy Sigma 10514 Class ship.  The systems will provide enhanced capabilities in effective defense of critical sea lanes, the release added.

The DSCA explained that the proposed sale of these systems and support will increase the Mexican Navy’s maritime partnership potential and align its capabilities with existing regional navies.  

The equipment will be provided from U.S. stocks.  There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale, the DSCA also said.