The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) recently cleared two major arms sales. The first one was about Australia’s request to acquire more Javelin missiles and the second was about Japan’s request to procure E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft.
FGM-148F Javelin for Australia
DSCA approved Australia’s request to buy up to 255 Javelin missiles with 5 of them being “fly-to-by” missiles meant for testing. The program also includes technical support from the U.S as well as elements of logistical and program support with the program’s cost amounting to $60.18 million.
About the Javelin ATGM
The FGM-148 Javelin is a versatile ATGM that can either be mounted on a platform or be operated by a single soldier. With a range of about 4km, the Javelin is capable of targeting soft as well as armored targets with its main advantage being the “top-attack” capability, striking the weakest part of the enemy’s armor.
E-2D Advanced Hawkeye for Japan
DSCA also approved Japan’s request to procure 5 E-2D Advanced Hawkeye Airborne Early Warning and Control Aircraft as well as the support and spares needed to keep them operational. In the package are also included 2 spare T56-A-427A engines, 1 spare Multifunction Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System Terminal, 2 spare GPS/INS systems with anti-spoofing capabilities and 1 spare ALQ-217 ESM module, all of which are key components of the E-2D AHE.
The total cost of the program, which also includes complete support for the platform, the ground equipment as well as the training needed, is about $1.381 billion.
About the E-2D Advanced Hawkeye
The E-2D Advanced Hawkeye is a very advanced platform that conducts battle management command and control. A few of the E-2D AHE’s key aspects are its radar, that incorporates both mechanical and electronic scanning, its “All Glass” cockpit which makes the crew’s work many times easier and its new mission computer as well as the fact that it is very capable in network-centric warfare.
