Australia seeks F/A-18 upgrade kits

Australia is seeking to upgrade its F/A-18F fighter aircraft to the "G" configuration, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency said. The agency, in its notification to Congress of a possible Foreign Military Sale, said in addition to the 12 EA-18G Modification Kits, the deal would also include associated parts, equipment, training and logistical support. The estimated value of the contract is $1.7 billion. "The proposed sale will improve Australia's capability in current and future coalition efforts," DSCA said. "Australia will use the enhanced capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense." Australia's shopping list: 12 EA-18G Modification Kits; 34 AN/ALQ-99F(V) Tactical Jamming System Pods; 22 CN-1717/A Interference Cancellation Systems; 22 R-2674(C)/A Joint Tactical Terminal Receiver Systems; 30 LAU-118 Guided Missile Launchers; Command Launch Computers for High Speed Anti-Radiation Missiles and Advanced Anti-Radiation Guided Missile spares and repair parts; and support and test equipment. Publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, U.S. government and contractor engineering, technical, and logistics support services, and other related elements of logistical and program support would also be included. Boeing would be the prime contractor.