US agrees to sell Japan $79 mln in PAC-3 missiles

WASHINGTON, Sept 7 (Reuters) – The U.S. Defense Department on Tuesday said it agreed to sell Japan Patriot Advanced Capability-3 missiles and associated equipment built by Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT.N: Quote, Profile, Research) and valued at up to $79 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which oversees foreign arms sales, said Japan requested the sale of 20 PAC-3 guided missiles, support equipment and spare parts.

The sale would support a PAC-3 ground systems co-production program, providing Japan with an effective, state-of-the-art anti-tactical missile capability and greatly improving its defensive capabilities, the agency said.

“It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist Japan to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability, which will contribute to an acceptable military balance in the area,” DSCA said in its official notification to Congress.

U.S. lawmakers now have 30 days to oppose the sale, although this rarely happens.

The DSCA said Bethesda, Maryland-base Lockheed would be the prime contractor on the deal, which could be worth $79 million if all options are exercised.