The State Department has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of the Philippines of AGM-84L-1 Harpoon Air Launched Block II Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $120 million.
The State Department has also approved sale of AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II Tactical Missiles and related equipment for an estimated cost of $42.4 million.
The Government of the Philippines has requested to buy twenty-four AIM-9X Sidewinder Block II tactical missiles; twenty-four AIM-9X Block II Captive Air Training Missiles (CATMs); six Tactical Guidance Units; and ten Captive Air Training Missile (CATM) Guidance Units. Also included are containers, support and test equipment, spare and repair parts, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical data, software delivery and support.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.
The Government of the Philippines has also requested to buy twelve AGM-84L-1 Harpoon Block II air launched missiles; and two ATM-84L-1 Harpoon Block II Exercise missiles. Also included are containers; spare and repair parts; support and test equipment; publications and technical documentation; personnel training and training equipment; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistical support services; and other related elements of logistical and program support. The estimated total cost is $120 million.
This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a strategic partner that continues to be an important force for political stability, peace, and economic progress in South East Asia, said State Department in a statement.
Amid tensions with China, the Philippines has withdrawn earlier decision to cancel visiting forces agreement with the United States.
The proposed sale will enhance the Philippines’ interoperability with the U.S. and other allied nations, making it a more valuable partner in an increasingly important area of the world. It will improve the Philippines’ capability to meet current and future threats by providing flexible solutions to augment existing surface and air defense. The Philippine Air Force is modernizing its fighter aircraft to better support its own maritime security needs. This capability will provide the Philippine Air Force the ability to employ a highly reliable and effective system to counter or deter maritime aggressions, coastal blockades, and amphibious assaults. The Philippines will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.
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