US State Dept. OKs sale of artillery rocket system to Poland

The decision, announced late on Thursday, aims to strengthen security in the region and help modernise Poland’s military, the Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

"This proposed sale will support the foreign policy and national security of the United States by improving the security of a NATO ally which is an important force for political stability and economic progress in Europe," the DSCA said in a statement.

It added that the sale "is consistent with U.S. initiatives to provide key allies in the region with modern systems that will enhance interoperability with U.S. forces and increase security."

The HIMARS launchers, produced by American company Lockheed Martin, and related equipment are estimated to cost around USD 655 million, the agency said.

Under US law, the deal has yet to be approved by Congress, public broadcaster Polish Radio’s IAR news agency reported.

(gs/pk)

Source: IAR, Reuters, dsca.mil