US approves fresh sale of 16 air-to-surface missiles with extended range to Japan

ISTANBUL

The US government has approved the fresh sale of 16 AGM-158B/B-2 joint air-to-surface standoff missiles with extended range to Japan, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency announced on Wednesday.

The transaction, which also includes additional equipment such as dummy air training missiles, containers, anti-jam global positioning system receivers, spare parts, and tech support, is estimated to cost $39 million.

The missiles will be integrated into F-15s and possibly other aircraft used by Japan's air defense force.

“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 statement said.

It added that the sale would improve Japan's ability to address current and future threats by providing stand-off capability through advanced, long-range strike systems for the Japan Air Self-Defense Force.

Japan, one of the US's oldest allies in the Asia-Pacific region since World War II, has increased its defensive capabilities amid China's increased influence in the region.

It also hosts thousands of American soldiers besides military bases and weaponry.