The US State Department has approved a potential foreign military sale (FMS) of missile systems and related equipment to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Saudi Arabia.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency (DSCA) has notified Congress in this regard.
The estimated $2.245bn sale to the UAE includes Terminal High Altitude Area Defense (THAAD) system missiles, THAAD fire control and communication stations, and related equipment.
The UAE Government previously placed a request to procure 96 THAAD missile rounds, two THAAD launch control stations, and two THAAD tactical operations stations.
Repair and return, system integration, and checkout, spare parts, testing equipment, technical documentation, encryption devices, secure communication equipment and logistical support are also part of the procurement plan.
Lockheed Martin’s business Lockheed Martin Space Systems will serve as the principal contractor.
The proposed sale is intended to enhance the UAE’s capabilities to counter ballistic missile threats and reduce dependence on US forces.
The approved FMS for Saudi Arabia comprises Patriot MIM-104E Guidance Enhanced Missile-Tactical Ballistic Missiles and related equipment, worth $3.05bn.
The Saudi Government proposed to buy 300 Patriot MIM-104Es, test equipment, range and test programmes, publications and technical documentation, training equipment, and spare parts.
The procurement also includes new equipment training, transportation, quality assurance team support, US Government and contractor technical assistance, and engineering and logistics support services.
Raytheon Corporation has been named as the principal contractor for this FMS.
The capability will help Saudi defend its borders against uncrewed aerial systems and ballistic missile attacks by Houthis.
In a statement, the DSCA said the proposed FMS will help strengthen the security of its key partner countries in the Middle East.
