WASHINGTON, July 29 (UPI) -- The U.S. Congress was informed of a potential $1.5 million contract to sell Iraq C-130J transport aircraft and a $206 million deal for armored vehicles.
The Defense Security Cooperation Agency, a U.S. Defense Department division that relays military-to-military sales information to U.S. allies, notified lawmakers that Baghdad requested six C-130J-30 aircraft from Lockheed Martin. Iraq also asked to purchase missile warning systems, countermeasure dispersal systems and 24 AE 210D3 engines from Rolls-Royce.
Iraq also asked to purchase 160 M2 .50 caliber machine guns, 160 M1117 armored vehicles, 144 grenade machine guns and a variety of other defense equipment, the agency said.
The possible sale will allow Iraqi forces to contribute to military operations conducted by NATO and other multinational operations in the region. The Iraqi air force may use the C130J in humanitarian operations.
The Iraqi police may use the armored vehicles and other equipment to boost their ability to stabilize their country and deter conflict spillover to neighboring countries.
The agency warns the announcement of the purchase plan does not necessarily mean contracts were rewarded. It also says the proposed sale will not impact U.S. military operations in the area.
