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The government of Ireland will acquire more than 36 lightweight command launch units and FGM-148 Javelin missile equipment under a possible US$46 million foreign military sale.
The country has requested the launch units in addition to a previous foreign military sale, valued at US$8.7 million, for 44 FGM-148 Javelin missiles.
The US Congress was notified of the updated sale, approved by the US State Department and by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 23 April.
The possible sale includes other equipment such as missile containers, US government technical assistance, enhanced producibility basic skills trainers, training, logistics and program support.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security and capabilities of Ireland to support its participation in peacekeeping missions with the United Nations and NATO’s Partnership for Peace program,” a statement published by the US DSCA said.
“The proposed sale will enhance Ireland’s capability to build its long-term defence capacity to defend its sovereignty and territorial integrity to meet its national defence requirements. Ireland will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.
“The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US government or contractor representatives to Ireland.
“There will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
The prime contractors are expected to be Javelin Joint Venture between Lockheed Martin and RTX Corporation.
