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The US State Department has approved the sale of Javelin lightweight command launch units to the United Kingdom.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has confirmed that it has provided Congress with the required certification for the sale, estimated at some $300 million.
According to the DSCA, the sale includes 513 Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units, as well as:
- Javelin LWCLU basic skills trainers;
- Javelin outdoor trainers;
- Javelin vehicle launcher electronics;
- Javelin LWCLY train the trainer package;
- lifecycle support;
- system integration and check out;
- Javelin operator manual; and
- technical assistance.
“The United Kingdom will use the enhanced capability to strengthen its homeland defense and deter regional threats,” a release from the DSCA said.
“The United Kingdom will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.”
The agency confirmed that Javelin Joint Venture would be the principal contractor for the sale, with the sale not reducing US readiness.
In June, the DCSA provided the necessary certification to Congress for the $120 million sale, comprising of unclassified spare and repair parts for ships, equipment, logistical technical assistance and US government and contractor support.
The sale is expected to help Taiwan’s security, political stability and maintenance of a military balance by supporting the sustainment of their surface vessel fleet.
It is further expected to enable greater military interoperability with the United States and their allies.
The agency, however, outlined that the sale is unlikely to change the military balance of the region and will not decrease the United States military’s readiness.
The parts will be sourced via US Navy vendors or from US Navy stock, with no prime contractor selected for this engagement.
The deal is subject to future amendments, with the DSCA explaining that the projected sum of US$120 million relates to the highest estimated quantity and dollar value of the initial requirements.
[Related: US State Department greenlights US$120m sale of ship parts to Taiwan]
