Australia signs A$1.3 billion deal to buy US Tomahawk missiles.

According to a press release from the Australian Department of Defence on the morning of March 17, Australia has signed a AUD 1.3 billion (approximately USD 895 million) agreement with the United States to purchase 200 Tomahawk fifth-generation land-attack missiles and up to 20 Tomahawk fourth-generation missiles. This agreement was mutually agreed upon just days after Australia announced it would purchase Virginia-class nuclear-powered attack submarines from the United States.

The Tomahawk cruise missile is expected to contribute to enhancing the Royal Australian Navy's long-range offensive and defensive capabilities. Source: Skynews

The Tomahawk is a long-range, all-weather cruise missile currently used primarily by the US Navy and the Royal Australian Navy in land-attack operations via destroyers and submarines. Weighing 1,600 kg and measuring 6.25 m in length, the Tomahawk cruise missile has a maximum speed of 913 km/h and a range of 2,500 km, and is expected to contribute to enhancing the long-range strike capabilities and deterrence of the Royal Australian Navy.

Australian Defence Minister Richard Marles said that the purchase of Tomahawk missiles could be considered part of Australia's nuclear submarine program; allowing for an expanded range of offensive and defensive capabilities, protecting Australia from the risk of conflict.

Australian Defence Industry Minister Pat Conroy also confirmed that Tomahawk missiles could be equipped on the Virginia-class submarines that Australia plans to purchase from the US under the AUKUS agreement.

“This is how we promote peace and stability by putting a question mark in the minds of any potential adversary. That is also why Tomahawk missiles are important and nuclear-powered submarines are vital to Australia,” Conroy emphasized.