The Defense Security Cooperation Agency has announced U.S. State Department approval for a potential $301 million Foreign Military Sale to Italy for 100 AGM-158B/B-2 JASSM-ER long-range cruise missiles and related support services.
The Congressional notification highlights Italy’s expected entry into a small cadre of European air forces equipped for stand-off conventional strikes at ranges approaching 1,000 km. Against a backdrop of shifting NATO security priorities driven by Russia’s war in Ukraine, the acquisition would significantly enhance the strategic posture of Italy’s F-35 force, elevating its deterrent capacity far beyond conventional strike missions.
The proposed package delivers more than missile hardware, incorporating classified evaluation tools, storage containers, encryption systems, spare and repair parts, consumables, transport assistance, site assessments, software, technical data, and documentation. It also provides access to U.S. government and industry engineering, training, and logistics expertise to ensure long-term sustainment.
DSCA emphasizes that the $301 million figure represents the upper estimate, with final pricing anticipated to be lower following configuration definition and contract negotiation. For Italian decision-makers, the deal offers cost-predictable access to an established U.S. long-range strike architecture.
