The U.S. government has approved a possible $41 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of Seasparrow tactical missiles to Mexico.
The U.S. Department of Defense said in a statement on 10 August that the Government of Mexico has requested to buy 6 Evolved Seasparrow tactical missiles (ESSM) and two 2 Evolved Seasparrow telemetry missiles.
The approval also is one MK56 VLS launcher (8-cell), eight MK30 canisters, eight MK783 shipping containers, spare and repair parts, support and test equipment, publications and technical documentation, training, USG/Contractor technical and engineering support services, and technical assistance.
Mexico intends to use the weapons systems on its Sigma 10514 Class ship. The systems will provide enhanced capabilities in effective defense of critical sea lanes.
The proposed sale of these systems and support services will increase the Mexican Navy’s maritime partnership potential and align its capabilities with existing regional navies. Mexico has not purchased these systems previously. Mexico will have no difficulty integrating this equipment into its armed forces.
On 18 August 2017, Damen announced the keel laying for one SIGMA 10514 Long Range Patrol (SIGMA 10514 LRP/ SIGMA 10514 POLA) at Damen Schelde Naval Shipyard in Vlissingen for the Mexican Navy. The vessel will be constructed modularly in six modules, two modules are to be constructed in Vlissingen and the other four modules in Mexico.
As for the Evolved Seasparrow missile, it designed and manufactured by Raytheon Missile Systems.
The missile is currently in service with the US Navy and some of the 12 NATO Sea Sparrow consortium nations.