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The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency has announced the approval of a US$400 million (AU$596.3 million) foreign military sale to Italy for the M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
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As part of the FMS proposal, the government of Italy will purchase 21 M142 HIMARS and one M31A2 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System (GMLRS) unitary high explosive pods with Insensitive Munitions Propulsion System (IMPS).
Additionally, the order includes universal fielding modules, AN/PRC-158 multi-channel tactical radio installation kits, a suite of secure tactical communications systems, the Missile Common Test Device Trainer (MCTD-T), global positioning system and satellite communications systems.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) release stated, “This proposed sale will support US foreign policy and national security by helping to improve the security of a North Atlantic Treaty Organization ally which is an important partner for political stability and economic progress in Europe. Italy requests these capabilities to provide for the defence of deployed troops, regional security, and interoperability with the United States.”
Additionally, the DSCA announcement stated, “The proposed sale will improve Italy’s capability to meet current and future threats and enhance its interoperability with US and other allied forces. Italy will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.”
The principal contractor will be Lockheed Martin, Grand Prairie, Texas.
Implementation of this proposed sale will require the assignment of 10 US government and 10 contractor representatives annually to Italy for a period of one week. US government or contractor representatives travelling to Italy will be required for program management reviews and new equipment training.
This announcement follows Australia’s approved FMS in August 2023 for 22 HIMARS, 60 M30A1 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System alternative warhead pods with Insensitive Munitions Propulsion System, as well as 40 M31A1 GMLRS unitary high explosive pods with IMPS.
Australia’s request also entails the purchase of 66 M30A2 Extended-Range ER-GMLRS AW pods and 24 M31A2 ER GMLRS unitary pods. Additionally, reduced-range practice rocket pods, HIMARS intercom systems, M1084A2 HIMARS resupply vehicles, trailers, a forklift, side loader, machine gun mounts, laptops, and associated equipment would also be acquired by Australia under the sale.
