Belgium to acquire 240 Hellfire missiles under possible US foreign military sale

The US State Department has approved a possible US$79 million foreign military sale of 240 Hellfire missiles to the government of Belgium.

The US State Department has approved a possible US$79 million foreign military sale of 240 Hellfire missiles to the government of Belgium.

The US Congress was notified of the possible foreign military sale by the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) on 8 December earlier this year.

The possible sale includes the missiles as well as US government and contractor engineering, technical and logistics support services. It also includes support equipment, ammunition, spare parts, consumables, accessories, repair and return support.

“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally, which is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” according to the US DSCA statement.

“The proposed sale will improve Belgium’s combat capability for counterterrorism operations. Belgium is a long-time operator of several advanced air-to-ground munitions via its F-35 and F-16 programs. Belgium will have no difficulty absorbing these articles and services into its armed forces.

“The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. Implementation of this proposed sale will not require the assignment of any additional US government or contractor representatives to Belgium.

“There will be no adverse impact on US defence readiness as a result of this proposed sale.”

The principal contractor is expected to be Lockheed Martin Corporation.