The U.S. State Department has approved a potential $360 million Foreign Military Sale (FMS) of Rolling Airframe Missiles (RAM) Block 2B and related equipment to Japan. This deal, aimed at bolstering Japan’s defense capabilities, includes up to 200 RIM-116E RAM missiles along with training gear, logistics support, and storage equipment. The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) formally notified Congress about the sale on October 18, 2024.
The RAM system is crucial for naval defense, designed to protect warships from anti-ship weapons. This acquisition will significantly enhance Japan’s area defense capabilities, addressing current and future threats in the critical East Asian and Western Pacific regions.
The approval comes as part of broader defense cooperation between the U.S. and its allies. The fiscal year 2024 Defense Authorization Act expanded the range of munitions eligible for multi-year contracts, including the RAM system, along with other key munitions such as Tomahawk cruise missiles and Precision Strike Missiles.
This sale underscores Japan’s strategic efforts to reinforce its maritime security amid rising regional tensions.
