Australia – Defense Articles Related to Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio Systems

Media/Public Contact
pm-cpa@state.gov
Transmittal No
22-23

WASHINGTON, April 19, 2022 - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Australia of Defense Articles Related to Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio Systems and related equipment for an estimated cost of $42 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Australia has requested to buy one hundred six (106) Multifunctional Information Distribution System Joint Tactical Radio System (MIDS JTRS) (5) terminals; fifteen (15) MIDS JTRS (6) terminals; and seven (7) Multifunctional Information Distribution System MIDS-Low Volume Terminal (MIDS-LVT) (4) Block Upgrade Two (BU2) retrofit kits. Also included are Low Volume Terminal (LVT) Cryptographic Modules (LCM). The estimated total value is $42 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States. Australia is one of our most important allies in the Western Pacific. The strategic location of this political and economic power contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist our ally in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.

The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability to interoperate with U.S. forces and exchange secure, jam-resistant tactical data via Link 16. Australia will use the enhanced capability as a deterrent to regional threats and strengthen its homeland defense. Australia will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment into its armed forces.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region.

The principal contractors will be Viasat, Carlsbad, CA; and Data Link Solutions, Cedar Rapids, IA. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of the proposed sale may require U.S. Government and contractor personnel to visit Australia on a temporary basis in conjunction with program technical oversight and support requirements, including program and technical reviews.

There will be no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness as a result of this proposed sale.

This notice of a potential sale is required by law. The description and dollar value is for the highest estimated quantity and dollar value based on initial requirements. Actual dollar value will be lower depending on final requirements, budget authority, and signed sales agreement(s), if and when concluded.

All questions regarding this proposed Foreign Military Sale should be directed to the State Department's Bureau of Political Military Affairs, Office of Congressional and Public Affairs, pm-cpa@state.gov.

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