The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a possible foreign military sale (FMS) of the Aegis weapons system (AWS) to Spain for an estimated cost of $860.4m.
The sale was originally requested by the Government of Spain and has been approved by the US State Department.
Spain has requested the provision of five Aegis MK7 AWSs, six shipsets of digital signal processing systems, five shipsets of AWS computing infrastructure MARK 1 MOD 0 and five shipsets of the operational readiness test system (ORTS) under the potential deal.
The FMS request also covers five shipsets of both the MK 99 MOD 14 fire control system and MK 41 baseline VII vertical launching system (VLS).
In addition, Spain has requested two All-Up-Round MK 54 Mod 0 lightweight torpedoes, 20 SM-2 Block IIIB missiles and MK 13 canisters with AN/DKT-71 warhead-compatible telemeters.
The five new AEGIS AWSs are expected to be installed on-board the Spanish Navy’s frigates and will provide the fleet with greater flexibility and capability to address regional threats, while enhancing stability in the region.
Furthermore, the possible sale would also include one S4 AWS computer programme, as well as five Ultra High Frequency (UHF) Satellite Communications (SATCOM) systems, five AN/SRQ-4 radio terminal sets, five shipsets of ordnance handling equipment and five shipsets of Selective Availability Anti-Spoofing Modules (SAASMs).
The proposed FMSÂ is intended to allow Spain to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defence capability.
It would also include the provision of US Government and contractor engineering and logistical support services, in addition to other associated logistical and programme support.
Lockheed Martin, Raytheon and General Dynamics are slated to serve as the principal contractor for the sale.
Other companies involved in the contract with the US Navy are anticipated to deliver components, systems and engineering services during the execution of the deal.
