The US State Department has approved a possible $300 million sale of Tomahawk cruise missile mission-planning systems, communications equipment and support services to Australia. The proposed package includes a Theater Mission Planning Center, a mission-planning system, communications equipment, engineering assistance, training, logistics and programme management. Washington says the package will strengthen Australia’s Tomahawk capability, support regional deterrence and improve homeland defence. It is also intended to increase interoperability with US and allied maritime forces. BAE Systems, Tapestry Solutions, Peraton and Leidos have been identified as principal contractors. Developed by Raytheon, the Tomahawk is a precision-strike cruise missile launched from ships and submarines, with a reported range of up to 1,000 miles. Block IV versions can loiter, change course and receive updated targeting information in flight. The Block V family introduces improvements to navigation, communications and warhead systems. Australia agreed in 2023 to purchase more than 200 missiles for $830 million. In 2024, Raytheon received a $401.2 million US Navy production contract for 131 Block V missiles, including 11 intended for Australia.
