Ahoy! Pakistan Requesting 150 Harpoon Missiles

AGM-84 Harpoon launch(click to view full) The Defense Security Cooperation Agency informed Congress of a request from Pakistan for 50 UGM-84L (submarine-launched), 50 RGM-84L (surface-launched), and 30 AGM-84L (air-launched) Block II Harpoon missiles; 5 Encapsulated Harpoon Command Launch Systems; 115 containers; missile modifications; training devices; spare and repair parts; technical support; support equipment; personnel training and training equipment; technical data and publications; U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics support. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $370 million. So, what is the Harpoon Block II missile, and how does it differ from Block I versions? And how does Pakistan propose to deploy the new missiles? UGM-84 Harpoon launch(click to view full) The sub-sonic, wave-skimming *GM-84 Harpoon is the US Navy’s sole anti-shipping missile, with the minor exception of small AGM-119B Penguin missiles and anti-tank Hellfires carried on some H-60 helicopters. Accordingly, it has been adapted into several variants. The Harpoon Block II is an upgrade program designed to improve the missile’s ability to attack targets in congested littoral environments, where nearby land masses and other ships can provide cover for would-be targets. Block II missiles […]