U.S. Approves $405M Sale of Anti-Radiation Missiles to Australia

The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Australia involving Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missiles-Extended Range (AARGM-ER) and related equipment.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress of this possible sale today.

Australia has requested up to 100 AARGM-ER missiles, equipped with global positioning system (GPS) precise positioning system (PPS) through Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Module (SAASM) or M-Code. The request also includes 24 AGM-88G AARGM-ER guidance sections and 24 AGM-88G AARGM-ER control sections as spares. In addition, non-major defense equipment (non-MDE) items such as missile containers, component parts, repair and support equipment, software, publications, training, and related logistics and program support are part of the sale. The estimated total cost is $405 million.

The sale is intended to enhance Australia's ability to counter threats specifically by enabling the suppression and destruction of land- or sea-based radar emitters linked to enemy air defenses. The AARGM-ER missiles are expected to increase the survivability of Australian tactical aircraft.

Northrop Grumman Systems is the principal contractor for the program.