Finland seeks acquisition of rocket launchers, rockets from U.S.

WASHINGTON, Nov. 11 (UPI) -- Congress has been informed of a possible Foreign Military Sales deal to Finland of rocket launch systems and rockets.

The notification from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said the weapons package had received approval from the U.S. State Department.

"The proposed sale of the GMLRS M31A1 Unitary and M30A1 GMLRS Alternative Warhead Rockets will improve Finland's capability to meet current and future threats," DSCA said. "Finland will use this enhanced capability to strengthen and secure its national borders."

The proposed sale would be worth an estimated total of $150 million. The prime contractor would be be Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control.

Finland is specifically seeking 40 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Pods: 15 Pods of M31A1 Unitary Missiles, with six missiles per pod for a total of 90 missiles and 25 Pods of M30A1Alternative Warhead Missiles (six missiles per pod for a total of 150 missiles).

Also included would be personnel training and training equipment, software development, and logistical support.

The proposed sale of this equipment and support will not alter the basic military balance in the region, said DSCA, which manages the FMS program.

Implementation of the sale would not require the assignment of any additional U.S. government or contractor representatives in Finland.