US State Department Approves 1.5Bln Sale of F-18 Fighters to Australia

The US State Department has approved a foreign military sale with Australia for the Boeing Company’s F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler aircraft in the amount of $1.5 billion, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) announced in a release on Tuesday.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — DSCA noted that the sale will assist Australia to have a strong and ready self-defense capability, and will enable the Royal Australian Air Force to ensure the reliability and performance of its F/A-18 fleet.

“The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Australia for F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler Aircraft Sustainment and associated equipment, parts and logistical support for an estimated cost of $1.5 billion,” the release said.

The Australian government has sought a possible sale and services for 24 Super Hornets and 12 Growler aircrafts, whose sustainment support efforts will have software and hardware updates.

“This sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major contributor to political stability, security and economic development in Southeast Asia and around the world,” the release said.

Implementation of the sale may require continued assignment of US Government and contractor representatives to Australia, according to the DSCA.

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency is tasked with developing and executing innovative security cooperation solutions that support mutual United States and partner interests, according to DSCA’s website.