Japan – Subsonic Sea-Skimming Aerial Targets and Follow-On Technical Support

Media/Public Contact
pm-cpa@state.gov
Transmittal No
24-90

WASHINGTON, October 25, 2024 - The State Department has made a determination approving a possible Foreign Military Sale to the Government of Japan of Subsonic Sea-Skimming Aerial Targets, Follow-On Technical Support, and related equipment for an estimated cost of $113 million. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency delivered the required certification notifying Congress of this possible sale today.

The Government of Japan has requested to buy up to two (2) BQM-177A Subsonic Sea-Skimming Aerial Targets (SSAT) for Aegis System Equipped Vessels (ASEV). The following non-MDE items will also be included: GQM-163 target drones; follow-on technical support for ASEVs, including for Combat Systems Sea Qualification Trials (CSSQT) and sustainment support services; Aegis computer software updates; combat systems integration; system integration, testing, overhauls, and upgrades; development, familiarization, operational, and maintenance support; classified books and other publications (technical and non-technical); adaption data; annual service agreements; test support; technical documentation; personnel training; U.S. Government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services; and other related elements of logistics and program support. The estimated total cost is $113 million.

This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a major ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region.

The proposed sale will improve Japan’s capability to meet current and future threats by ensuring the Japan Maritime Self Defense Force’s (JMSDF) Aegis fleet remains ready to provide critical capabilities in the defense of Japan. Japan will have no difficulty absorbing this equipment and services into its armed forces.

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

The principal contractor for the BQM-177A SSATs will be Kratos Defense, located in Sacramento, CA, and Fort Walton Beach, FL. The principal contractor for the GQM-163A target drones will be Northrop Grumman, located in Chandler, AZ. The principal contractor for the Aegis Weapon System (AWS) will be Lockheed Martin Corporation, located in Moorestown, NJ. There are no known offset agreements proposed in connection with this potential sale.

Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional U.S. Government or contractor representatives to Japan.

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

The description and dollar value are 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.