The US State Department has approved the potential sale of necessary equipment and follow-on services for the British military’s Tomahawk weapon system.
The Tomahawk is a precision weapon launched from ships and submarines that can strike targets up to 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) away, even in heavily defended airspace.
The approved deal includes the supply of a tactical Tomahawk weapon control system, recertification of the country’s missiles, maintenance, training, and in-service support.
It also covers the sale of hardware, software, communication equipment, and operational flight tests and engineering for the Tomahawk system.
According to the US Defense Security and Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the provision of necessary equipment and services for the British Tomahawks will help sustain the European nation’s military capability.
The proposed sale would also support the foreign policy goals of the US by improving the defense and security of an allied nation.
“By deploying the Tomahawk Weapon system, the UK contributes to global readiness and enhances the capability for the US forces operating globally alongside them,” the DSCA said.
“The UK already operates this capability, and will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”
Raytheon has been selected as the prime contractor if the final sale is approved.
