The United States wants to sell weapon systems worth about $ 323 million (about 305 million Swiss francs) to Finland, which borders Russia.
The Pentagon said Monday (local time) that it involved AIM 9X Block II tactical air-to-air missiles and AGM-154 glide bombs and associated equipment. The US State Department has approved the proposed sale of the manufacturer Raytheon to the NATO accession candidate. Congress has yet to approve the deal.
The delivery of these weapons will improve Finland’s anti-aircraft defense and air-to-ground capability. “It is vital to the national interest of the US to assist Finland in developing and maintaining a strong and operational self-defense capability,” it said.
Finland has a 1,340 km long border with Russia and, like neighboring Sweden, applied for NATO membership after the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
However, both countries can only be accepted if all 30 current NATO members ratify the so-called accession protocols. 28 have already done so – only Turkey and Hungary are still pending votes. (aeg/sda/dpa)
Soource :Watson
I am Amelia James, a passionate journalist with a deep-rooted interest in current affairs. I have more than five years of experience in the media industry, working both as an author and editor for 24 Instant News. My main focus lies in international news, particularly regional conflicts and political issues around the world.
