Australia May Buy $315M in SM-2 Missiles
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The government of Australia has requested a possible sale of up to 175 SM-2 Block IIIA Standard anti-air missiles, up to 30 Telemetry missiles, up to 2 SM-2 Block IIIA inert operational missiles, canisters, containers, spare and repair parts; plus supply support, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, US government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $315 million, and the principal contractors will be Raytheon (Tucson, AZ) and General Dynamics (Scottsdale, AZ). There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
The Royal Australian Navy already has SM-1 Standard missiles in its inventory, and intends to use the improved SM-2 missiles on its FFG 7 Oliver Hazard Perry Class frigates for self-defense against air and cruise-missile threats. Australia’s SEA 4000 program is also moving forward, with design and construction of 3 Air Warfare Destroyers built around Lockheed Martin’s AEGIS AN/SPY-1 radar and combat system. AEGIS was designed from the outset to operate with the Standard missile family, and both systems reach their maximum potential when deployed together. By adding appropriate modifications and using the SM-3 missile, these destroyers could even be used in a limited missile defense role. eDefense Online: Australia Requests Sale of SM-2 Missiles.
