The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale valued at $45 million to Denmark, featuring AGM-114R Hellfire missiles and assorted related equipment. The Danish request encompasses up to 100 of these advanced missiles, alongside three AGM-114R captive air test missiles, six Hellfire Longbow M299 launchers, and various handling and transport equipment.
Specifically, the proposed sale includes two MHU-191/M missile transport and handling trailers and three BRU-14 aircraft bomb ejector racks, along with crucial support materials such as training aids, spare parts, technical documentation, software, and logistical elements necessary for effective operation.
The intent behind this sale is to bolster Denmark’s military capabilities, facilitating greater interoperability with the United States and its allies. The move is aimed at enhancing Denmark’s capacity to engage in joint military operations alongside partner nations, particularly during periods of heightened collaboration. The Hellfire missile system is already in use by multiple countries, including Norway, Sweden, and the UK, as well as several allied forces in the Middle East and East Asia.
Lockheed Martin is designated as the principal contractor for the transaction, although no offset agreements have been presented at this time, according to information from the Defense Security Cooperation Agency.
This development follows a recent clearance from Washington for a foreign military sale of the P-8A patrol aircraft amid ongoing tensions between the US and Denmark regarding Greenland, suggesting a strategic push to strengthen military ties.
The AGM-114R Hellfire missile was initially designed for deployment on AH-64 Apache helicopters. Over the years, its design has evolved to allow for launches from various platforms, including air, sea, ground, and unmanned systems. Each missile measures approximately 4.9 feet (1.5 meters) in length and weighs around 100 pounds (45 kilograms), and has been deployed in several conflicts by US forces, including engagements in Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, and Yemen. These missiles have been effective in targeting armored vehicles and critical military infrastructure, such as radar systems and communications equipment.
