US State Department Approves $5.2Bln Sale of F-18 Combat Jets to Canada

The US Department of State has approved a more than $5.2-billion sale of F/A-18 Super Hornet combat jets to Canada, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) said in a news release.

WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Department of State has issued approval of a potential $5.23 billion sale of 18 F/A-18 Super Hornet jets and associated equipment to Canada, US Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a release on Tuesday.

"The proposed sale of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft will improve Canada’s capability to meet current and future warfare threats and provide greater security for its critical infrastructure," the release said.

The DSCA explained in the release the sale would contribute to US national security objectives and help improve the security of a NATO ally.

"The acquisition of the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet aircraft, associated weapons and capability will allow for greater interoperability with US forces, providing benefits for training and possible future coalition operations in support of shared regional security objectives," the release said.

The principal contractors include Boeing, Raytheon Missile Systems Company and Northrop Grumman, according to the release.