The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $162.1 million sale of arms to Norway that would deliver up to 50 MK 54 MOD 0 lightweight torpedoes and associated equipment, the Pentagon announced Wednesday. The estimated $162.1 million agreement was formally certified to Congress by the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
“The proposed sale would be designed to increase Norway’s defense capabilities and its interoperability with the US and other NATO allies,”, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said in a statement. The package, according to officials, includes not only the torpedoes but also containers, software, training, spare parts, technical documentation, and logistical support.
This sale advances the foreign policy and national security goals of the United States by enhancing the defense of a NATO ally that contributes to bringing political stability and economic growth to Europe,” the agency said in a statement.
Norway already operates the MK 54 MOD 0 torpedoes and will likely be able to adopt the new equipment with ease. The sale would not probably alter the balance of military power in the area.
RTX Corporation of Arlington, Virginia, was named the prime contractor for the transaction. No offset conditions have been proposed to date, although any such conditions would be negotiated directly between the contractor and Norway.
The sale will include temporary deployment by the U.S. government and contractors to Norway to provide technical support and supervision. The officials emphasized that the transaction will not degrade U.S. defense readiness.
The ultimate cost is liable to revision in accordance with Norway’s unique requirements and budget approvals. The certification to Congress is premised on the maximum estimated value based on initial planning.
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