AEGIS Weapons System Approved for Spain

US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, On 2 November 2005, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Spain of the AEGIS weapon system as well as associated equipment and services. The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $550 million.  
 
The Government of Spain has requested a possible sale of:  
 
Major Defense Equipment (MDE):
 
–1 MK 7 AEGIS Weapons System;  
–1 MK 41 Baseline VII Vertical Launch System; and  
–2 MK 45 MOD 1 Gun Mount (1 ship sets) (Excess Defense Articles)  
 
Non-MDE:
 
–AN/SLQ-25A Torpedo Countermeasure System;  
–Aviation Support System;  
–MK III Shipboard System Light Airborne Multi-Purpose System;  
–Common Data Link Management System/Joint Tactical Information Distribution System;  
–Multifunctional Information Distribution System on Ships;  
–MK 162 MOD 1 Shipboard Gridlock System;  
–Navigation Sensor System Interface/Global Positioning System;  
–HARPOON ORDALTS to upgrade Spanish HARPOON System.  
 
Also included are system integration and testing, communications and support equipment, testing, computer programs and maintenance support, ship integration, spare and repair parts, supply support, publications and technical data, training, U.S. Government and contractor technical assistance, and other related elements of logistics support. The estimated cost is $550 million.  
 
This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the military capabilities of Spain and enhancing standardization and interoperability with U.S. forces. This proposed sale of the AEGIS Weapon System will provide greater interoperability and cooperation between our navies.  
 
The proposed sale of the AEGIS Weapons System to Spain will contribute to U.S. security objectives by providing a coalition partner with significantly improved Air Warfare capability. This will improve the Spanish Navy