The Australian government will invest 2.12 billion Australian dollars ($1.39 billion) to purchase the latest AMRAAM missile variants for air defense and aerial strike capability.
The announcement follows the US State Department’s approval to sell up to 200 each of AIM-120C and AIM-120D AMRAAM missiles to Australia in April.
The 120D-3 will be deployed on Australia’s F/A-18F Super Hornet, EA-18G Growler, and F-35A Lightning II aircraft, while the 120C-8 is meant for the National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS).
The Australian Army’s new 10th Brigade is inducting the NASAMS to boost the country’s short-to-medium-range air defense capability.
The munitions will be procured through the US government’s Foreign Military Sales Program.
“This is a major investment in the security of our nation and underscores the Albanese Government’s commitment to providing the ADF (Australian Defence Force) with the capabilities it needs to keep Australians safe,” Australian Minister for Defence Industry, Pat Conroy, said.
“The ADF’s credible strike and long-range capabilities support our strategy of denial, which aims to deter any conflict before it begins.
“These additional missiles will help to ensure the ADF’s ability to protect Australians against aerial threats.”
Missile Boost
The 120D-3 is a supersonic air-to-air missile with a range of 160 kilometers (99 miles).
A replacement for the 120D, the D-3 features hardware and software upgrades for improved range and overall performance.
The purchase is part of Australia’s increased spending on defense in response to China’s growing military capabilities.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese last year pledged to invest 74 billion Australian dollars ($47 billion) to purchase missiles from the US and Europe, including $21 billion ($14 billion) to establish a Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance Enterprise in Australia.
In addition to the AMRAAM missiles, the US State Department also approved a $2-billion sustainment package for Australia’s F/A-18F Super Hornet fighter jet and EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft.
