UAE requests HIMARS launchers from US

The US Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress of a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of high-mobility artillery rocket system (HIMARS) launchers and associated equipment to the UAE.

Under the estimated $900m sale, the UAE has requested 12 HIMARS launchers, along with 100 M57 tactical missile system (ATACMS) T2K (block IA unitary) rockets, and 65 M31A1 guided multiple-launch rocket unitary pods.

The package also includes 12 HIMARS resupply vehicles, two wreckers, five M1089A1P2s with long-term armour strategy cab and B-Kit armour, and 90 low-cost reduced-range practice rocket pods.

The US will also provide support equipment, communications equipment, spare and repair parts, test sets, batteries, personnel training and equipment, and systems integration support, as well as other related elements of logistics support.

The HIMARS is expected to improve the UAE's capability to address existing and future threats, while providing greater security for its critical infrastructure and enhancing its interoperability with the US and its allies.

Approved by the US State Department, the sale also contributes to the foreign policy and national security of the US by helping to improve the security of the UAE, which continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East.

Lockheed Martin Missile and Fire Control has been named as the prime contractor for the FMS programme.

The newest member of the multiple-launch rocket system (MLRS) family, HIMARS is used to engage and defeat artillery, air defence concentrations, trucks, light armour and personnel carriers, as well as support troop and supply concentrations.

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Image: HIMARS fires the US Army's new guided multiple-launch rocket system at White Sands Missile Range, US. Photo: courtesy of the US Army.