The U.S. State Department has approved a potential Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Australia for F/A-18F Super Hornet and EA-18G Growler sustainment support and associated equipment, with an estimated value of $2.0 billion. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has formally notified Congress of this potential transaction.
Australia’s request includes 60 Global Lightning Joint Tactical Terminal – Transceivers (JTT-X), 40 Advanced Electronic Warfare Systems, and 24 Next Generation Electronic Attack Units (NGEAU). The package also covers a range of non-MDE items such as encryption devices, countermeasure systems, mission planning software, spare parts, avionics software updates, system integration services, technical data, training, flight testing, and logistical support.
This proposed sale aligns with U.S. foreign policy and national security interests by supporting Australia—one of America’s key allies in the Western Pacific. Enhancing Australia’s self-defense capabilities contributes to regional stability and strengthens cooperation with coalition partners. The sustainment package will bolster Australia’s ability to address current and future threats and support joint security operations in the Indo-Pacific region.
Australia will easily integrate the additional equipment and services into its existing force structure. The sale will not impact the regional military balance.
The Boeing Company in Arlington, VA, is the principal contractor. There are no known offset agreements at this time. The sale will require temporary deployment of approximately 25 U.S. government personnel and 15 contractor representatives to Australia for program oversight and technical support.
There will be no negative impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this sale. The estimated cost reflects maximum quantities and may be adjusted based on final contract terms.
