The State Department has approved a possible $45 million deal with Japan for conversion kits to upgrade its MK 15 Phalanx Close-in Weapon Systems (CIWS) from Block IB Baseline 1 to Block IB Baseline 2.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) notified Congress on March 5 of the foreign military sale (FMS).
Japan has also requested support equipment, spare parts, software and logistical support services.
“This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a major ally that has been, and continues to be, a force for political stability and economic progress in the Asia-Pacific region.”
The principal contractor for the FMS is Raytheon [RTN].
The MK 15 Phalanx CIWS platforms are utilized for defense against anti-ship missiles.