WASHINGTON, July 3 (UPI) -- Australia is seeking to buy MK 54 torpedoes and associated equipment and services from the United States in a deal worth $83 million.
The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in its required notification to Congress, said the sale would serve U.S. national interests by supporting an ally "that contributes significantly to ensuring peace and stability to the [Western Pacific] region."
The sales, if approved by Congress, would comprise as many as 100 MK 54 All-Up-Round torpedoes, MK exercise stations, exercise fuel tanks, recoverable exercise torpedoes, a torpedo facility and maintenance upgrade, and spare and repair parts.
Engineering, logistics and training support services also would be included.
The torpedoes would be used on the country's MH-60R helicopters as well as P-8A maritime patrol aircraft that Australia is planning to acquire.
The principal contractor for the deal would be Raytheon Integrated Defense Systems.
Government or contractor employees would not be required to travel to Australia for support work.
