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The Italian government has requested to purchase more than 100 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles-Extended Range (JASSM-ER) under a possible US$301 million foreign military sale approved by the US State Department.
The US Congress was notified of the possible US foreign military sale by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency on 5 December this year.
The possible sale includes 100 AGM-158B/B-2 JASSM-ER, JASSM classified test equipment and containers, KGV-135A encryption devices, spare and repair parts, repair and return support, weapon system support and software, logistics and program support.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” according to a statement from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
“The proposed sale will improve Italy’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing stand-off capability via advanced, long-range strike systems for employment on Italian fighter aircraft, including but not limited to F-35 aircraft.
“Italy 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.
“Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US government or contractor representatives to Italy. There will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”
The principal contractor is expected to be Lockheed Martin.
