Israel has selected the Lockheed-designed LCS 1 Freedom littoral combat ship and may purchase up to four of these vessels, to which it plans to fit its own missile and electronic systems.

The total value, if all options are exercised, could be as high as $1.9 billion.

Each ship will be equipped with two MK-41 Vertical Launch Systems, eight cells for each system; one close-In-Weapon System, Block 1A; one Enhanced HARPOON Launching System with launchers; and two MK-32 Surface Vessel Torpedo Tubes.

The proposed acquisition includes design and integration services, hardware and software, spare and repair parts, test and tool sets, personnel training and equipment, publications, U.S. Government and contractor engineering and logistics personnel services, and other related elements of logistics support.

Israel's strategic position makes it vital to the United States' interests throughout the Middle East. It is the policy of the United States to promote Middle East peace, support Israel's commitment to peace with other regional Arab countries, enhance regional stability and promote Israeli readiness and self-sufficiency. It is vital to the U.S. national interest to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is said to be consistent with those objectives.

The principal contractors would be Lockheed Martin, General Dynamics, and Raytheon.

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