US Defense Security Cooperation Agency, On 23 May 2005, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia of three MK 7 AEGIS Weapons Systems as well as associated equipment and services.
The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $350 million.
The Government of Australia has requested a possible sale of three MK 7 AEGIS Weapons Systems, 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 $350 million.
Australia is an important ally in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power significantly contributes to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in modernizing its surface combatant fleet so as to maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability and contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area. This procurement also aids in maintaining the U.S. Navy (USN) production base and will improve interoperability between RAN and USN forces. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives, and facilitates burden sharing with our allies.
The proposed sale of AEGIS Weapons Systems to Australia will contribute to U.S. security objectives by providing a coalition partner with significantly improved Air Warfare capability. This will improve the RAN
