Japan approved to buy RIM-116E missiles, build maintenance facility

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has approved a possible sale of 212 RIM-116E Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) Block 2B missiles to Japan.

Also included in the approval is support for the creation of a RIM-116E Intermediate Level Maintenance Facility in Japan. The total value of the approval is US$360 million. 

The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is a long-time user of RAM aboard its Aegis destroyers. The JMSDF's new Mogami class frigates are also equipped with the missile system, with one SeaRAM system comprising the first six ships primary anti-aircraft armament.

Japan has previously received approval to buy 63 RIM-116Es as well as 44 RIM-116Cs.

"The proposed sale will improve Japan’s capability to meet current and future threats by providing significantly enhanced area defense capabilities over critical East Asian and Western Pacific air and sea lines of communication," the DSCA said in a statement.