The US State Department has cleared a $705m Foreign Military Sale (FMS) to Australia, involving M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) and associated equipment.
Australia seeks to acquire 48 HIMARS units and a suite of non-major defence equipment items such as M1084A2 HIMARS resupply vehicles, M1095 trailers, practice rocket pods, and communication systems.
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The potential sale may also include support services including engineering, technical assistance, and logistics, alongside necessary spare parts and programme support elements.
Lockheed Martin, L3Harris Corporation, Leonardo DRS and Oshkosh are identified as the principal contractors for this deal.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has fulfilled its obligation by notifying Congress of the potential sale.
The proposed acquisition will not only improve Australia’s defensive capabilities against current and emerging threats but also enhance its interoperability with US forces and other allies, DSCA said.
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By GlobalDataThis enhancement will also bolster Australia’s defence of its territory and augment the protection of vital infrastructure.
DSCA added that this FMS transaction is designed not to disrupt the military balance within the region.
Currently, there is no indication of any offset agreement linked to this sale. Any such arrangements would be negotiated directly between Australia and the contractors involved.
The implementation of this sale will also not necessitate an increase in US Government or contractor personnel in Australia.
Earlier in August 2025, Australia had approached the US for Javelin Lightweight Command Launch Units (LwCLU) along with related equipment for an estimated cost of $97.3m.
Australia planned to boost its defence forces’ critical capabilities with an additional A$50.3bn ($32.4bn) in spending over the next decade, until 2033-2034.
The plan was outlined in the National Defence Strategy and the Integrated Investment Programme for 2024.
