Finland seeks U.S. missiles

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WASHINGTON, July 23 (UPI) -- The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency reports that Finland is seeking the purchase of tactical missiles and related equipment.

The sales package, unless halted by Congress, would be worth an estimated $132 million.

"Finland intends to use these defense articles and services to expand its existing army architecture and improve its self-defense capabilities," DSCA said in its notification to Congress. "This will contribute to the Finnish defense forces' goal of modernizing its capability while further enhancing interoperability between Finland, the United States and other allies."

The complete package under the U.S. Foreign Military Sales program includes: 70 M57 Army Tactical Missile System T2K Unitary Missiles; Missile Common Test Device software; ATACMS quality assurance team support; spare and repair parts; tools and test equipment; and support equipment.

Training of personnel would also be included as well as U.S. government and contractor engineering and logistics support.

The prime contractor would be Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control in Dallas.

The agency said the proposed sale replaces an earlier proposed transaction for M39 missiles.