Australia finalized a deal to purchase over 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States, aiming to enhance its long-range strike capabilities as part of a broader defense overhaul.
On Monday, Australia announced a contract for the procurement of over 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States at a cost of 1.3 billion AUD ($833 million USD) for its Royal Australian Navy’s Hobart Class destroyers.
In 2021, Australia revealed its intention to procure Tomahawk missiles for its navy, receiving official approval from the US government in March of this year. The agreement includes both Tomahawk Block V and Tomahawk Block IV (RGM-109E) variations, along with provisions for unscheduled missile maintenance, spare parts, training, and related services.
With this acquisition, Australia will become part of a select trio, along with the United States and the United Kingdom, in possessing these long-range missiles with a 1,500-kilometer range.
“We are investing in the capabilities our Defense Force needs to hold our adversaries at risk further from our shores and keep Australians safe in the complex and uncertain world in which we live today,” said Australian Deputy Prime Minister, the Hon Richard Marles.
“The war in Ukraine has demonstrated the importance of having not just war stocks, but a domestic missile manufacturing industry and this announcement will help deliver that,” he added.
In addition to the Tomahawks, the Australian government has granted approval for the purchase of over 60 Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile – Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles and Spike Long-Range 2 anti-tank guided missiles.
The AARGM-ER air-to-ground missiles are designed for targeting enemy radar systems and will be deployed on the Royal Australian Air Force’s Growler and Super Hornet aircraft, with potential future use on the F-35A Lightning II fighter jets. This purchase from the US was for $431 million AUD ($276 million USD).
Australian Boxer combat reconnaissance vehicles will be armed with Spike Long-Range 2 anti-tank guided missiles, slated for delivery next year under a contract valued at over $50 million AUD ($31 million USD).
