Australia is expected to seamlessly integrate the new equipment into its armed forces. Credit: Bumble Dee/Shutterstock.

The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale (FMS) to the Government of Australia, involving countermeasures and related equipment, with an estimated total cost of $165m (A$260.7m).  

Principal contractors for the potential sale include Kilgore Flares in Toone, Armtec Countermeasures in Coachella, Alloy Surface Company in Aston, and CCI Capco in Grand Junction.  

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These companies will provide the necessary equipment and services to meet the requirements of the Australian Government. 

The sale aims to bolster Australia’s defence capabilities and reinforce its role in maintaining regional peace and economic stability. 

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has notified Congress of the approval. 

The deal includes a suite of defensive equipment such as MJU-61, MJU-64 and MJU-66 decoy flares, MJU-76 flare countermeasures, RR-198A/L chaff cartridges, and CCU-145/A impulse cartridges.  

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The package also encompasses support equipment such as MK-3 pallet, technical assistance, and logistics support. 

The transaction is consistent with US foreign policy and national security goals, aimed at aiding Australia in developing a robust self-defence posture. 

The equipment is expected to enhance aircraft survivability, addressing both current and future security challenges.  

Australia will seamlessly integrate this new capability into its armed forces without impacting the regional military balance. 

The approval follows a recent green light for the sale of Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System-Alternate Warhead (GMLRS-AW) rounds to Australia. 

This deal, with an estimated cost of $91.2m (A$145.4m), has Lockheed Martin in the US, and Lockheed Martin Australia as the principal contractors.   

In February 2025, Australian Army’s UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters achieved initial operating capability (IOC). 

The IOC milestone follows comprehensive testing, evaluation, and training, along with the launch of a fleet support and maintenance system. 

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