AEGIS Weapons System sale to Spain approved by State Department

The United States may sell five AEGIS Weapons Systems to Spain, the State Department announced Tuesday.

The deal, which would cost about $860.4 million, requires the approval of Congress before it can be finalized.

The Government of Spain has requested to buy the five AEGIS Weapons Systems MK7 and a variety of other weapons and technologies that come with it -- including five shipsets Operational Readiness Test Systems, two All-Up-Round MK 54 Mod 0 lightweight torpedoes, and 20 SM-2 Block IIIB missiles and MK 13 canisters with AN/DKT-71 warhead compatible telemeter. It has also requested one S4 AWS computer program, five shipsets Ultra High Frequency Satellite Communications, radio sets, selective availability anti-spoofing modules, torpedo countermeasures systems and launchers and test canisters, among others.

The proposed sale will improve the security of a NATO ally, in addition to being an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe. Assisting Spain in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability is vital to the U.S. national interest, the State Department said in a press release.

The AEGIS systems will be on Spain's five new F-110 frigates, which will improve the flexibility and capability of Spain's fleet to counter regional threats and continue to enhance stability in the region. Spain already has five AEGIS frigates and is proficient at operating the AEGIS system to its fullest extent.

The proposed sale of the equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region, the State Department said.

Prime contractors are for the work are Lockheed Martin, Raytheon and General Dynamics. Companies currently under contract with the U.S. Navy will also provide components and systems, as well as engineering services, during the effort.

The sale's implementation will require multiple trips by U.S. Government and contractor representatives to conduct technical reviews plus training and maintenance support in Spain for two years. Two contractor representatives will also live in the country for two years.

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