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The US State Department has approved a possible US$404 million foreign military sale of MC-55A aircraft equipment and services to Australia.
The US Congress was notified of the possible foreign military sale (FMS) by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 6 August this year.
The possible sale includes equipment and services to support maintenance of its MC-55A aircraft fleet, such as major and minor modifications, spare parts, US government and contractor engineering, logistics support services, consumables and accessories as well as repair and return support.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific,” according to a statement from the US DSCA.
“The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. It is vital to the US national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defence capability.
“The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability to maintain its fleet of MC-55A aircraft that enhances its ability to conduct effective air operations and supports US operations in the region.
“Australia will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. There will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.
“Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US government or contractor representatives to Australia.”
L3Harris is expected to be the principal contractor.
