Sweden seeks helo buy

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WASHINGTON, Oct. 5 (UPI) -- Sweden has requested the purchase of 15 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, with associated parts, equipment and logistical support.

The U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency, in notifying the U.S. Congress of the possible sale, said the deal would be worth about $546 million.

"Sweden's acquisition of these helicopters is consistent with recently adopted defense and modernization priorities focused on both international threats to Swedish security as well as regional threats to Swedish sovereignty," DSCA said in its letter to Congress. "This proposed sale will contribute to Sweden's need to expand its existing army architecture to rapidly deploy forces to counter territorial threats or in support of coalition efforts in Afghanistan.

"The purchase of UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters will contribute to Sweden's goal to update its capability while enhancing interoperability between Sweden, the United States and other allies."

Associated equipment requested by Sweden includes 34 T700-GE-701D General Electric engines; 15 AN/AAR-57(V)3 common missile warning systems; AN/APR-39 radar signal detecting sets; AN/AVR-2B laser warning sets; aviation mission planning station; transportable operations simulator; communications equipment; spare and repair parts, tools and support equipment.

The prime contractors will be Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. in Stratford, Conn., and General Electric Aircraft Company in Lynn, Mass.