Australia seeks SM-2 Block IIIB
The US State Department is considering a possible $301 million foreign military sale (FMS) of SM-2 Block IIIB standard missiles and associated equipment and support to Australia, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on 31 May.
Australia has requested up to 80 SM-2 Block IIIB standard missile, vertical launching tactical all-up rounds, RIM-66M-09; and up to 15 Mk 97 SM-2 Block IIIB guidance sections. The request also includes Vertical Launching System canisters, technical documentation and operator manuals, along with contractor engineering, logistics and technical support services.
Australia wants the equipment for anti-air warfare test firings during the qualification trials of the three Air Warfare Destroyers (AWD) currently being built for the Royal Australian Navy. The SM-2 Block IIIB missiles combined with the vessels' Aegis combat system will enhance the area defence capabilities of the AWDs over Southeast Asian air-and-sea communication lines.
Australia has already integrated SM-2 Block IIIA missiles on its Perry-class FFG frigates, and in-country maintenance facilities have been upgraded with new guided missile test equipment capable of maintaining the SM-2 All-Up Round.
If the sale goes ahead the principal contractors of the potential sale will be Raytheon Missile Systems and BAE Systems.
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