SM-6 Air Defense Missiles Sought From U.S.

The U.S. State Dept. has approved a possible Foreign Military Sale of surface-to-air missiles to Japan, reports the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The proposed US$450 million sale covers the delivery of up to 32 SM-6 Block I missiles in two batches of 16; Mk 21 vertical launch system canisters and related training and support services.

Raytheon Missiles and Defense would be the primary contractor.

The sale would support Japanese air and ballistic missile defense capabilities and interoperability with the U.S., the agency said.