May 24, 200521 yr Sale of Aegis Weapons Systems to Australia Proposed By AGENCE FRANCE-PRESSE DefenseNews The Pentagon on May 23 announced the possible sale of three Aegis naval weapons systems to Australia, saying it would increase the ability of the U.S. and Australian navies to operate together. The Defense Security and Cooperation Agency (DSCA) estimated the value of the sale at as high as $350 million. Aegis systems are centered on a sophisticated computerized command system that can cue air defense missiles to enemy missiles and aircraft detected by targeting radar. Using its AN/SPY-1 phased array radar, it can track more than a hundred targets simultaneously. Noting Australia’s strategic location, the DSCA said helping the Royal Australian Navy modernize its fleet of surface warships is vital to U.S. interests. “The procurement also aids in maintaining the U.S. Navy production base and will improve interoperability between RAN and USN forces,” it said. “This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives, and facilitates burden sharing with our allies.”
Create an account or sign in to comment