US Approves Sale of Long-Range Cruise Missiles to Japan to Increase Security
5
World
January 16, 2025 12:42
us, japan, indo-pacific region - The US State Department has approved the sale of 39 million dollars worth of additional long-range cruise missiles and related equipment to Japan.
The US State Department has approved the sale of 39 million dollars worth of "JASSM-ER" long-range cruise missiles and related equipment to Japan, in line with the country's foreign policy objectives and national security goals.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency stated that after the Japanese government expressed interest in acquiring 16 JASSM-ER cruise missiles, the sale was approved, with the aim of enhancing the security of a major ally which is a force for political stability and economic progress in the Indo-Pacific region, thereby supporting the US' foreign policy goals and national security objectives.
Approvals for arms sales by the US State Department imply that there are no impediments to the sale from the perspective of the US administration.
If the US Congress does not object to the Department's decision within 30 business days, the administration will commence discussions on the package's contents with the approved country.
Following these discussions, the US presents a letter of offer to the country in question, and if an affirmative response is received, the procurement process is carried out.
As China and North Korea pose increasing security concerns, Japan is strengthening its defense capabilities. Such missiles can target enemy aircraft from beyond their strike ranges.