Australia to procure Tomahawk, AARGM-ER, Spike LR2 missiles

 

A Tomahawk cruise missile launched from a US Navy deateoyer. Photo c/o ASPI.

The Australian Government has confirmed that it would be procuring 200 Tomahawk cruise missiles from the United States in a deal expected to be worth around A$1.3 billion (US$850 million), which are expected to be one of the most powerful and technologically advanced weapon system ever fielded by the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The Tomahawk missiles will be deployed aboard the Royal Australian Navy’s Hobart-class destroyers and would allow for striking land targets at long ranges with its effective range of 1,500 kilometers.

Should deliveries push through, Australia will be the only third country to have the Tomahawk cruise missile alongside the United States and United Kingdon.

Aside from the Tomahawk missile, the Australian Government has also confirmed that it would be acquiring more than 60 Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile  - Extended Range (AARGM-ER) missiles also from the United States, under a deal expected to be worth around A$431 million (US$290 million).

These missiles would be used to target enemy radar and air defense systems, and would be deployed on the F-35A Lightning II, F/A-18E/F Super Hornet and EF-18G Growler attack aircraft of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF).

Meanwhile the Australian Department of Defence has selected Rafael Australia to supply the Australian Army with the Spike Long Range 2 (LR2) anti-tank missiles under a deal worth more than A$50 million (US$32 million).

These missiles would be arming the Australian Army’s Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles to enhance their combat capability and ability to destroy tanks and other armored vehicles.

[1] Australian Department of Defence

[2] Rafael Australia

[3] Reuters