US approves $101 mn FMS from Australia for RAAF F/A-18F upgrades.

"This sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a major contributor to political stability, security, and economic development in the Western Pacific. Australia is an important Major non-NATO Ally and partner that contributes significantly to peacekeeping and humanitarian operations around the world," the DSCA said.

"The proposed sale will improve Australia’s capability in current and future coalition efforts. This equipment will help the Royal Australian Air Force better communicate with and protect its F/A-18 aircraft, and the addition of MIDS JTRS will accomplish the goal of making U.S. and Australian aircraft more interoperable when supporting operational forces," the Agency added.

The prime contractors will be the Harris Corporation, Melbourne, FL.

The Royal Australian Air Force currently flies 24 F/A-18F Super Hornets, which will ensure that Australia's air combat capability edge is maintained until the full introduction into service of the planned F-35A Lightning II. The F/A-18F Super Hornet achieved Final Operational Capability in December 2012.

The F/A-18F Super Hornets are based at Number 1 and Number 6 Squadrons at RAAF Base Amberley. They have recently participated in a range of exercises and operations including Exercise Pitch Black in the Northern Territory, Exercise Bersama Shield on the Malaysian Peninsula, and Operation OKRA in the Middle East.