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U.S. Notifies Congress of $301 Million JASSM Missile Sale to Italy

Washington’s step advances Italy’s plan for long‑range strike capability as officials stress the move does not change the regional military balance.

Overview

  • State Department and DSCA detailed a proposed sale of roughly 100 AGM‑158B/B‑2 JASSM missiles to Italy valued at about $301 million.
  • Lockheed Martin is designated to handle the contract, with integration expected on Italian fighters including the F‑35.
  • U.S. officials said the transfer is for Italy’s armed forces and is unrelated to Ukraine or NATO’s pooled procurement for Kyiv.
  • The notification triggers the congressional review phase before final contracting, with production cited at Lockheed facilities in Troy and Orlando.
  • Italy’s leaders framed the purchase as part of greater European defense responsibility, and Pentagon records show eight U.S. authorizations for Italy totaling about $2.64 billion since February 2024.