US approves $1 billion missile sale to Australia

The United States has authorised the sale of up to 200 AIM-120C and AIM-120D air-to-air missiles, valued at $1.04 billion, to Australia.

The approval, announced on April 9, includes associated equipment designed to enhance Australia’s defence capabilities, Caliber.Az reports per foreign media.

The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) stated that the proposed sale will bolster Australia’s ability to counter current and future threats, particularly by improving aircraft survivability.

Australia remains firmly aligned with the US and the UK in the trilateral AUKUS defence pact, which includes a major deal to acquire American-made nuclear-powered submarines. The deal has raised questions about the ongoing commitment of former President Donald Trump to the alliance despite being forged under the leadership of his successor, Joe Biden.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese highlighted the “bipartisan support” for AUKUS during a call with Trump in February, underscoring the importance of the alliance.

The DSCA affirmed the strategic value of Australia to the US, describing it as “one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific,” and stressed that supporting Australia’s defence efforts is crucial to US national interests.

The potential sale was cleared by the State Department, with the DSCA submitting the required notification to the US Congress. While Congress still needs to approve the transaction, it is unlikely to oppose the deal.

By Aghakazim Guliyev