The US State Department has approved the potential foreign military sale of Javelin missiles to the government of Australia.
Canberra has requested a total of 255 FGM-148F missiles and other support services at an estimated cost of $60.18 million.
The US would provide technical assistance and logistical support as part of the possible sale.
According to the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, the missile system would improve Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats.
“The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. It is vital to the US national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability,” the announcement stated.
Lockheed Martin and Raytheon Missiles and Defense will serve as the prime contractors.
The Javelin Missile
The Javelin FGM-148F is a man-portable missile system designed to penetrate enemy armored vehicles.
It is a shoulder-fired weapon, but it can also be installed on tracked, wheeled, or amphibious vehicles for added mobility.
The missile is equipped with an imaging infrared seeker and can be ready to fire in less than 30 seconds. Reloading takes less than 20 seconds.
The Javelin has a tandem warhead: a precursor warhead to initiate explosive reactive armor and a main warhead to penetrate a vehicle’s base armor.
