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The US State Department has approved the possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for AEA-18G Electronic Warfare Range Systems and related support, equipment and training.
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According to a statement from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), a US government agency, the government of Australia requested additional funding of US$35.93 million ($48 million) to a previously implemented contract for two Electronic Warfare Range Systems.
The additional funding brings the total investment to US$115 million ($154 million).
Leidos (hardware) and General Dynamics Mission Systems (software) will be the prime contractors within Australia.
The systems will support Electronic Warfare and Electronic Surveillance training within the borders of Australia.
The DSCA noted that the sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major contributor to political stability, security and economic development in the Western Pacific.
The DSCA also advised that Australia is an important major non-NATO ally and partner that contributes significantly to peacekeeping and humanitarian operations around the world.
"It is vital to the US national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability," the statement said.
The agency reiterated to Congress that by enabling Australian Defense Force ranges, the US government will ensure consistency in training across platforms and theaters, whether the exercises are conducted in the United States or in Australia, where US aircrews will be able to participate in training exercises alongside their Australian counterparts.
