The Netherlands Gets U.S.’ Nod to Buy Hellfire Missiles for $150M

The U.S. State Department has greenlit a $150 million deal to supply the Netherlands with 386 AGM-114R2 Hellfire air-to-ground missiles and associated equipment.

The sale, aligned with U.S. foreign policy goals and national security objectives, aims to enhance the Netherlands' homeland defense and regional threat deterrence capabilities.

The AGM-114 Hellfire, known for its laser-guided or radar-guided features, is commonly deployed from helicopter gunships and MQ-1 Predator drones. The Netherlands' request includes technical assistance, integration support, and related logistics and program support.

Congress has been notified of the Foreign Military Sale, triggering a 30-day review period for lawmakers to study and potentially veto the deal. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) assured that the Netherlands would seamlessly integrate the acquired equipment into its armed forces.

Lockheed Martin Corporation, headquartered in Orlando, FL, is set to be the principal contractor for the sale.