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The ADF is set to procure $177 million in artillery ammunition and related equipment from the United States, after receiving approval from the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has approved the Commonwealth government’s request to purchase $177 million (USD$132.2 million) in ammunition and related accessories, which include:
- M825A1 155mm White Phosphorous projectile munitions;
- M782 Multi-Option Fuse for Artillery;
- M762A1 electronic-timed fuses,
- M231 and M232A2 propelling charges;
- percussion primers;
- technical publications and books;
- technical data for operational maintenance;
- technical assistance and services; and
- related elements of logistics and program support.
The principal contractor for the deal is yet to be determined, however, the DSCA revealed that the material could potentially be sourced from a combination of the US Department of Defence’s (DoD) stocks and new procurement.
In approving the sale, the DSCA noted the significance of the US’ long-standing partnership with Australia.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States,” the DSCA stated.
“Australia is one of our most important allies in the western Pacific.
“The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region.”
The munitions would enable effective training and extend the Australian Defence Force’s capability to conduct combined operations.
“The ADF already has these rounds in service, and is trained and equipped to use them,” the DSCA noted.
“Australia will not have any difficulty absorbing these weapons into its armed forces.”
[Related: US DSCA approves Aussie Javelin missile purchase]
Charbel Kadib
News Editor – Defence and Security, Momentum Media
Prior to joining the defence and aerospace team in 2020, Charbel was news editor of The Adviser and Mortgage Business, where he covered developments in the banking and financial services sector for three years. Charbel has a keen interest in geopolitics and international relations, graduating from the University of Notre Dame with a double major in politics and journalism. Charbel has also completed internships with The Australian Department of Communications and the Arts and public relations agency Fifty Acres.
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