WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — The US Department of State has approved a possible sale of Seasparrow Missiles to Chile in a deal that slightly exceeds $140 million, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a press release on Tuesday.
"The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to Chile for Evolved Seasparrow Missiles (ESSMs), equipment, training and support," the release stated. "The estimated cost is $140.1 million."
The Chilean government requested the purchase of 33 ESSMs, six Evolved Seasparrow Telemetry Missiles and three MK 41 Vertical Launching Systems, the release noted.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated the weapons would increase Chile’s ability to "deter regional threats and strengthen its homeland defense. Moreover, it would promote interoperability with the United States.
The Evolved Seasparrow is a ship-based anti-aircraft missile that has also been modified for land-based air defense.
Raytheon, BAE Systems and Lockheed Martin would be the prime contractors for the possible sale to Chile, according to the release.
