The US Department of State has approved the possible sale to Australia of EA-18G Growler electronic warfare range systems for an estimated US$115 million including support, equipment and training.
The prime contractors for this potential purchase under the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) program are Leidos for hardware and General Dynamics Mission Systems for software.
According to the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), the Australian government requested two range systems with which to conduct electronic warfare and electronic surveillance training in Australia.
“By enabling Australian Defence Force ranges, the US government will ensure consistency in training across platforms and theatres, whether the exercises are conducted in the United States or in Australia, where US aircrews will be able to participate in training exercises alongside their Australian counterparts,” the DSCA stated on December 5.
“The proposed sale will allow continued efforts to improve Australia’s capability in current and future coalition operations. Australia will use the range to enhance electronic warfare capabilities as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defence.”
