U.S. okays $1.5 billion sale of Lockheed Aegis combat system to Japan

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Source: Yahoo! News / Reuters

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - The U.S. State Department has approved the likely sale to Japan of two Lockheed Martin Corp Aegis combat systems valued at $1.5 billion, a deal aimed at boosting Japan's defenses against a ballistic missile attack, the U.S. Defense Department said Friday.

The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA), which oversees foreign arms sales, said the Aegis combat systems and associated equipment would be installed on two new Japanese guided missile destroyers, or DDGs, expanding Japan's ability to carry out joint military missions with the U.S. Navy.

"The addition of two new Aegis DDGs to Japan’s fleet will afford more flexibility and capability to counter regional threats and continue to enhance stability in the region," DSCA said in a notification to U.S. lawmakers that was dated Aug. 4, and released today.

The proposed sale, which is likely to be approved by Congress, will complete Japan's goal of acquiring eight ships capable of ballistic missile defense, DSCA said.

Read more: http://news.yahoo.com/u-okays-1-5-billion-sale-lockheed-aegis-205913968--sector.html

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1. The distance from Japan to North Korea is roughly 600 miles.

North Korea is heavily armed, including an atomic arsenal, and is openly hostile toward Japan.

The Aegis system is capable of intercepting incoming missiles.

As a sovereign nation, Japan has a right -- virtually an obligation -- to protect her people and to defend her territory from outside attack.

On the other hand, the acquisition of advanced weapons systems easily results in a dangerous arms race. while at the same time empowering and enriching America's already powerful military-industrial complex.