Australia - Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit

The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Unit and related equipment for an estimated cost of $97.3 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress.

The Government of Australia has requested to buy one hundred sixty-one (161) Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU) that will be added to a previously implemented case whose value was under the congressional notification threshold. The original Foreign Military Sales (FMS) case, valued at $6.3 million ($0 in Major Defense Equipment (MDE)), included Javelin Life Cycle Support (LCS) and U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance. This notification is for one hundred sixty-one (161) Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU). The following non-MDE items will also be included: Javelin LwCLU Basic Skills Trainer; missile simulation rounds and battery coolant unit; electronic technical manual and operator manuals; life cycle support; physical security inspection; spare parts; System Integration and Check Out; U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, engineering, logistics, and personnel services; tool kits; training; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $97.3 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the Western Pacific. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

The proposed sale will enhance Australia’s capability to meet current and future threats by improving its advanced surface-fired munitions capabilities and increasing its capability to deter adversaries. This enhanced capability will protect Australia and local allied land forces and will significantly improve Australia’s contribution to coalition anti-armor capability. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be the Javelin Joint Venture between RTX Corporation, located in Arlington, VA; and Lockheed Martin, located in Orlando, FL. At this time, the U.S. Government is not aware of any offset agreement proposed in connection with this potential sale. Any offset agreement will be defined in negotiations between the purchaser and the contractor.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional 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.

The description and dollar value are for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.