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The US State Department has approved the prospective sale of tactical missiles to the potential NATO member.
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The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has announced the approval of Finland’s request to purchase 40 AIM 9X Block II tactical missiles; four AIM 9X Block II tactical guidance units; and 48 AGM-154 Joint Standoff Weapons (JSOW).
The air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons would be deployed from Finland’s fleet of fighter aircraft.
The deal, valued at approximately US$323.3 million (AU$485.8 million), also includes the provision of:
- dummy air training missiles (DATM);
- captive air training missile (CATM);
- captive flight vehicles (CFVs);
- free flight vehicles (FFVs); and
- technical support and training.
US government officials and representatives from prime contractor Raytheon would be tasked with visiting Finland to support the integration of the weapons systems.
A DSCA spokesperson said the proposed transaction aligns with the United States’ foreign policy interests.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a trusted partner, which is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” the statement read.
“It is vital to the US national interest to assist Finland in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability.
“The proposed sale will improve Finland’s air-to-air and air-to-surface weapons capabilities and will positively impact US relations with countries in the Nordic region.”
The approval of the proposed sale comes amid mounting tensions in eastern Europe off the back of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Finland, along with its Nordic neighbour Sweden, has applied for NATO membership to shore-up its security in the event of a Russian attack.
Both nations completed ascension talks with NATO representatives in July, with allies subsequently signing the Accession Protocols for Finland and Sweden at NATO Headquarters on 5 July 2022.
The Accession Protocols are currently subject to approval from all NATO countries for ratification.
[Related: NATO appoints new 2IC for allied forces]
