Hundreds of TOW missiles tipped for sale to Morocco

WASHINGTON, Nov. 19 (UPI) -- Hundreds of TOW 2A missiles and their launchers have been approved for sale to Morocco by The U.S. State Department.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, which notified Congress of the possible Foreign Military Sales deal, said the proposed package for tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided 2A radio frequency weapons has an estimated value of $157 million.

"The proposed sale of the TOW 2A Missiles, M220A2 Launchers and technical support will advance Morocco's efforts to modernize its ground defense capability, the agency told Congress.

The TOW 2A -- or Tube-launched, Optically tracked, Wire-guided missile -- although primarily used as a ground-fired weapon, has successfully been used from airborne platforms.

Morocco is seeking 600 TOW 2A Radio Frequency missiles from the United States, 300 M220A2 TOW launchers, associated equipment, parts, and U.S. government and contractor logistical support.

Raytheon Missile Systems would be the principle contractor.