US authorises SM-3 sale to Japan
The US government has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale to Japan of up to 73 Standard Missile-3 (SM-3) Block IIA vessel-based surface-to-air missile systems for an estimated $3.3 billion.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of the approval for the deal, which also includes MK 29 canisters with packing, handling, storage, and transportation (PHS&T) kits, up to ten so-called special assignment airlift mission flights, and support.
This proposed sale will provide Japan with increased at-sea defensive capabilities as part of its Aegis ballistic missile defence system, to assist in defending Japan as well as US personnel stationed there, the DSCA said.
The prime contractor for the SM-3 Block IIA all up rounds will be Raytheon, while the prime for the MK 29 canisters and PHS&T kits will be BAE Systems.
This proposed sale would require annual trips to Japan involving US government and contractor representatives for technical reviews, support, and oversight over a period of approximately five years.
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