Australia seeks 24 Super Hornets, Growlers

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WASHINGTON, March 4 (UPI) -- Australia is seeking to buy F/A-18 E/F Super Hornet aircraft and EA-18G Growlers through a U.S. Foreign Military Sales deal worth $3.7 billion.

The sale, if approved by Congress, would be for as many as 12 of each aircraft type plus associated equipment, parts, training and logistical support.

"Australia is an important ally in the Western Pacific that contributes significantly to ensuring peace and economic stability in the region. Australia's efforts in peacekeeping and humanitarian operations have made a significant impact on regional political and economic stability and have served U.S. national security interests," the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in its notification to Congress.

"The proposed sale will improve Australia's capability in current and future coalition efforts. Australia will use the enhanced capability as a deterrent to regional threats and to strengthen its homeland defense."

The prime contractors for the package would be Boeing, General Electric Aircraft Engines, Data Link Solutions, BAE Systems, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Corporation, and Visions Systems International.