The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale of weapon system support for Australia’s Tomahawk cruise missiles.
Valued at $250 million, the possible sale covers the provision of general weapons support services, logistics support management, and material support.
The US will also carry out associated engineering services, management of technical data, and other related program support.
According to a US Defense Security Cooperation Agency announcement, the support services will allow Canberra to better utilize its Tomahawk missiles for effective use against evolving threats.
They will also ensure that the weapon is properly evaluated so it can identify and hit targets more precisely.
Bolstering an Important Ally
America’s potential provision of Tomahawk weapon system support to Australia will not only bolster the defense capabilities of Canberra but also enhance the interoperability between the two countries.
Washington considers Australia one of its most important allies, making it “vital” to the US national interest to assist its international partner in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.
“The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific,” the announcement stated.
Once finalized, Washington clarified that the support services will have no adverse impact on its defense readiness.
About the Tomahawk
Developed by Raytheon, the Tomahawk is a precision strike weapon that can be launched from ships or submarines.
It can reportedly hit targets up to 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers) away, even in heavily-defended airspace.
Its Block IV variant can loiter for hours before making a direct hit and change course instantly.
Two Tomahawk missiles can also switch targets mid-flight, thanks to their state-of-the-art data link.
In August 2023, Australia locked a deal to buy more than 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the US worth $830 million.