- The U.S. State Department approved a potential $301 million sale to Italy for 100 AGM‑158B/B‑2 JASSM‑ER long‑range missiles and related support.
- The deal would enhance Italy’s stand‑off strike capability and ensure interoperability with U.S. and NATO forces.
The U.S. State Department has approved a possible $301 million Foreign Military Sale to Italy for advanced long-range cruise missiles and associated support, according to a release from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA).
Italy has requested to purchase 100 AGM-158B/B-2 Joint Air-to-Surface Standoff Missiles with Extended Range (JASSM-ER), along with encryption equipment, software, spare parts, and logistics support. The missiles, manufactured by Lockheed Martin in Orlando, Florida, are designed for precision strikes at extended ranges and are compatible with modern multirole fighter aircraft, including the F-35.
“This proposed sale will support the foreign policy goals and national security objectives of the United States by improving the security of a NATO Ally that is a force for political stability and economic progress in Europe,” DSCA said in its notification to Congress.
The package also includes classified test equipment, KGV-135A encryption devices, maintenance materials, classified and unclassified documentation, site surveys, and U.S. government and contractor support. The agency noted that no U.S. personnel or contractors would be assigned to Italy as a result of the sale.
According to the DSCA, Italy will have no difficulty absorbing the missiles and related support into its armed forces. The weapons are expected to provide enhanced stand-off capability for Italian fighter aircraft and improve readiness against potential threats in Europe.
The JASSM-ER is a low-observable, air-launched cruise missile with a 1,000-pound penetrating warhead. Developed by Lockheed Martin, the system first entered U.S. Air Force service in 2014, following the original JASSM variant’s introduction in 2009. The missile is designed to strike high-value targets from outside enemy air defense zones and is already in service with several allied countries, including Australia, Finland, and Poland.
As noted by DSCA, “The proposed sale will improve Italy’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing stand-off capability via advanced, long-range strike systems.”
No offset agreements have been proposed in connection with the potential deal. Should one be negotiated, it would be arranged separately between the Government of Italy and Lockheed Martin.
The agency added that the sale would not affect the basic military balance in the region and would have no adverse impact on U.S. defense readiness. The total cost reflects the maximum estimated value; the final price will depend on actual requirements, available funding, and any final contract agreement.