WASHINGTON, August 12, 2013 – The Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress Aug 8 of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia of munitions and associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support for an estimated cost of $54 million.
The Government of Australia has requested a possible sale of up to 4,002 M1156 Precision Guidance Kits (PGK) for 155mm munitions, personnel training and training equipment, publications and technical documentation, U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $54 million.
Australia is an important ally in the Western Pacific that contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. Australia has requested these PGKs to provide for the defense of deployed troops, in pursuit of regional security objectives and interoperability with the United States. This proposed sale is consistent with U.S. objectives to strengthen Australia’s military capabilities and facilitate burden sharing.
The Government of Australia requires these PGKs to provide capabilities vital to defend against external and other potential threats. This proposed sale supports Australia’s efforts to effectively secure its borders and littoral waters, as well as conduct counter-terrorism/counter-piracy operations. The Government of Australia is capable of absorbing and maintaining these guidance kits in its inventory.
The proposed sale of this equipment will not alter the basic military balance in the region.
The principal contractor will be ATK Armament Systems of Plymouth, Minnesota. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.
Implementation of this sale will not require the assignment of U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Australia.
There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
This notice of a potential sale is required by law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.
NOTE: The “M1156 Precision Guidance Kit” Link in the above was added by PacificSentinel for clarity & context.