The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of BGM-71 tube-launched, optically-tracked, wireless-guided (TOW) 2A missiles and associated equipment to Lebanon.

Under the estimated $245m sale, the Lebanese Government has requested the supply of 1000 BGM-71E-4B-RF 2A Tow anti-armour radio-frequency missiles, along with 500 BGM-71-H-1-RF tow bunker buster radio frequency missiles, and 50 M220A2 TOW launchers.

The package also includes spare and repair parts, support equipment, publications and technical documentation, personnel training and training equipment, US Government and contractor logistics and technical support services, as well as other related elements of programme and logistics support.

The TOW missiles sale is expected to enhance Lebanon’s capability to address current and future threats, and will provide greater security for its critical infrastructure.

The country will use the missiles to strengthen its homeland defence.

The sale will also augment the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to enhance the security of a country that has been, and continues to serve as, an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.

Raytheon has been selected to serve as the prime contractor for the FMS programme.

Featuring multi-mission TOW 2A, TOW 2B, TOW 2B Aero, and TOW bunker buster missile variants, the BGM-71 TOW is a long-range anti-tank missile designed to defeat explosive reactive armour, bunkers, fortifications, and amphibious landing craft, in complex urban environments.

The missile is in service with more than 40 international armed forces and is integrated on more than 15,000 ground, vehicle, and helicopter platforms worldwide.

Image: A BGM-71 TOW missile on display at the White Sands Missile Range Museum in New Mexico, US. Photo: courtesy of White Sands Missile Range Museum.