Thailand moves to buy $24.9m anti-ship missiles from US
Thailand is a step closer to buying up to five Harpoon Block II anti-ship missiles from the United States at an estimated cost of US$24.9 million.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, a unit under US Department of Defense, submitted the required certification to Congress of the possible sale on Wednesday, according to a statement released on Friday.
This Congress notification of a potential sale is required by US law and does not mean the sale has been concluded.
The Thai government has requested to purchase up to five RGM-84L Harpoon Block II surface launched missiles and one RTM-84L Harpoon Block II exercise missile, the statement said.
The proposal included containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, US government and contractor representatives technical assistance, engineering and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistics and program support.
“This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to strengthen the US-Thai strategic relationship and to improve the security of an important partner,” the statement said.
The Thai Navy intends to use the missiles on its DW3000 Class Frigate. The proposed sale of the Harpoon Block II missiles and support will increase its maritime potential. Thailand has purchased Harpoon missiles previously and will have no difficulty absorbing these missiles into its armed forces, the statement said.
“The proposed sale will not alter the basic military balance in the region,” the agency noted.
The principal contractor is the Boeing Company.