Spain has requested five AEGIS Weapon System shipsets, six Digital Signal Processor shipsets, five MK 41 Baseline VIII Vertical Launching System shipsets, and five Next Generation Surface Search Radar shipsets. The request also includes a wide range of non-major defense equipment, logistics, training, software, publications, and U.S. government and contractor support, bringing the total estimated cost to $1.7 billion.
According to the notification, the proposed sale supports U.S. foreign policy and national security objectives by strengthening the security of a NATO ally that contributes to political stability and economic progress in Europe. The sale is intended to enhance Spain’s ability to address current and future threats while supporting regional stability.
Spain plans to use the equipment and services to modernize five AEGIS-equipped frigates, improving its capacity for defense missions and interoperability with U.S. forces and NATO allies in theater ballistic missile defense. U.S. officials stated that Spain will have no difficulty integrating the equipment and support into its armed forces.
The proposed sale is not expected to alter the basic military balance in the region. The principal contractors are Lockheed Martin, RTX Corporation, Ultra Maritime Naval Systems and Sensors, and General Dynamics.
Source: Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
