The United States greenlights the sale of 625 AGM-88G anti-radar missiles to Poland and the Netherlands, further contributing to the record-breaking total of 38 billion in US military equipment exports in 2023.
AGM-88G Sales to Poland and Netherlands
On April 25, Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) issued notices authorizing missile sales valuing close to billion. Poland intends to purchase 360 anti-radar AGM-88G missiles at a projected cost of .275 billion. The Netherlands is planning to acquire 265 units at a cost of 00 million.
US Military Equipment Exports
The significant rise in US military equipment exports is linked to an increase in orders processed through the Foreign Military Sales (FMS) procedure. European countries played a significant role in this rise, with Poland leading the way. There has been some criticism concerning the high dependency of EU countries on the US for weapon purchases.
Export Recommendations to EU Countries
The DSCA has recommended that the US Congress approve military equipment sales to EU member countries exceeding 5.5 billion this year. The sales involve six countries: Croatia, Greece, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, and Poland.
About the AGM-88G Missiles
The AGM-88G missile was developed by Northrop Grumman for the US Navy. Operative since 2023, this missile has a range of over 300 km and can travel at Mach 4 speed.
Netherlands Defense Ministry on AGM-88G
The Dutch Defense Ministry has expressed strong interest in procuring the AGM-88G missile. The ministry cited the missile's high quality and the existing shortage in Europe as the primary reasons for this purchase.