U.S. approves potential $975 million HIMARS sales to Australia
- August 19, 2023
- Posted by: Quatro Strategies
- Categories: Aerospace & Defense, Asia Pacific, United States
The Biden administration has revealed its intention to sell High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems (HIMARS) to Australia in a deal valued at up to A$1.5 billion ($975 million). This move is part of the effort to strengthen the alliance between the United States and Australia and counter China’s expanding military presence in the Indo-Pacific region.
The proposed sale includes 22 M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems, 60 Guided Multiple Launch Rocket Systems, and various other munitions. However, the sale still requires approval from the US Congress and finalization of contracts.
The State Department has stated that Australia intends to use this capability to enhance its homeland defense and safeguard critical infrastructure. They also mentioned that the sale would not significantly alter the military balance in the region.
The US and Australia have been working to enhance their military cooperation, especially in response to the growing influence of China’s military capabilities. In July, both countries announced plans to increase the US military presence in Australia, which includes more frequent visits by US submarines and collaboration on guided missile production.
This move aligns with President Joe Biden’s focus on strengthening relationships with allies and addressing security challenges posed by China. The upcoming visit of Australia’s Prime Minister Anthony Albanese to the US in October is expected to further solidify these efforts.
Interested in learning more?
Sign up for Top Insights Today
Top Insights Today delivers the latest insights straight to your inbox.
You will get daily industry insights on
Oil & Gas, Rare Earths & Commodities, Mining & Metals, EVs & Battery Technology, ESG & Renewable Energy, AI & Semiconductors, Aerospace & Defense, Sanctions & Regulation, Business & Politics.
Read more insights
Russia finalizing route for Power of Siberia 2 pipeline to China
Russia is in the final stages of determining the route for the Power of Siberia-2 gas pipeline, which is planned to go through Mongolia on its way to China. This pipeline is part of Russia’s efforts to expand trade with Asia amid strained economic relations with the West due to its actions in Ukraine.
Copper crunch eases as China’s concentrate imports hit all-time high
China’s copper industry just caught a much-needed break. Imports of copper concentrate surged to nearly 3 million metric tons in April — the highest monthly volume on record. That influx could ease the severe pressure on domestic smelters, which have been operating under extreme stress due to a global ore shortage and surging refining capacity that has crushed processing margins.
China’s smelters, which account for a majority of global refined copper production, have faced an unprecedented squeeze this year. Spot treatment and refining charges (TC/RCs) — the fees miners pay smelters to process copper concentrate — have plunged deep into negative territory, meaning smelters are now paying miners to take the raw material.
European NATO members sign $5.5 billion contract for 1,000 Patriot missiles
A coalition of European states, including Germany, the Netherlands, Spain, and Romania, has collectively ordered up to 1,000 Patriot air defense missiles in response to a renewed wave of Russian airstrikes against major Ukrainian cities. This significant procurement is facilitated by the NATO…
