WASHINGTON 

The US State Department approved a possible sale of Multi-Mission Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft P-8A and related equipment to Denmark, the Pentagon said Monday.

The estimated cost is $1.8 billion, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement.

"The proposed sale will enhance Denmark’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing a credible force that is capable of deterring adversaries and participating in NATO operations," it said.

The principal contractor will be The Boeing Company, located in the state of Virginia, it added.