The proposed transaction, which includes GMLRS-AW pods and associated equipment, is valued at $83.14m.
Singapore seeks to procure 45 M30A2 GMLRS-AW pods and other non-major defence equipment including telemetry kits, engineering services, technical support, and other logistics provisions.
Lockheed Martin will serve as the main contractor if the deal progresses.
The US Department of State indicated that the transaction aligns with American foreign policy and national security aims by reinforcing the security of Singapore.
The department added that the possible sale would “improve Singapore’s defensive capability to shield the allies who train and operate within their borders, improve its ability to meet current and future threats, and increase regional stability.”
GMLRS-AW rounds were produced to engage area targets while avoiding unexploded ordnance, following US Department of War cluster munitions guidelines and international standards.
The system has a range exceeding 70 kilometres (km) and is equipped with a fragmenting warhead weighing approximately 200 pounds.
These rockets are compatible with both the M270A1 Multiple Launch Rocket System and the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS).
In January, the US State Department approved a FMS to Singapore that includes P-8A Maritime Patrol and Reconnaissance Aircraft, MK 54 lightweight torpedoes, and related equipment, with the estimated value of the deal at $2.32bn.
Singapore’s defence spending is projected to reach $19.7bn by 2029, according to data and analytic firm GlobalData.
According to the publication “Singapore Defense Market Size and Trends, Budget Allocation, Regulations, Key Acquisitions, Competitive Landscape and Forecast, 2024–29,” recent acquisitions contributing to military modernisation in Singapore include F-35A/B multirole aircraft, Invincible-class (Type 218SG) submarines, Multi-Role Combat Vessels (MRCVs), and Hunter Armoured Fighting Vehicles.
