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The United Kingdom will acquire Guardian laser turrets and large aircraft laser assemblies under a possible US$160 million US foreign military sale.
The possible sale of large aircraft infrared countermeasures and other equipment was approved by the US Department of State on 5 June this year.
Under the sale, the UK has requested to buy 36 Guardian Laser Turret Assemblies as well as 18 AN/AAQ 24(V)N Large Aircraft Infrared Countermeasures (LAIRCM) system processor replacements.
Other items under the potential sale include LAIRCM user data module cards, missile warning sensors, testing and test equipment, aircraft components, parts and accessories as well as US government engineering, technical and logistics support services.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” according to a statement from the US Department of State.
“The proposed sale will improve the United Kingdom’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing modern protection for large air mobility platforms, ensuring the operational readiness of the Royal Air Force.
“The United Kingdom 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. The principal contractor will be The Boeing Company, located in Arlington, Virginia.”
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