Congress notified on possible missile sale

WASHINGTON, Dec. 20 (UPI) -- A possible U.S. Foreign Military Sale of Javelin missiles to the United Arab Emirates has been reported by the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency.

The agency, in its required notification to Congress, said the package deal to the United Arab Emirates is worth $60 million.

"The proposed sale of these missiles will provide the United Arab Emirates with a medium-range, man-portable, shoulder-launched, fire-and-forget anti-armor weapon system," it said. "The proposed sale will enhance (the Emirates') existing anti-tank capability to meet current and future threats."

The sale would involve 260 Javelin missiles, Javelin weapon effects simulators, basic skills trainers, containers, rechargeable and non-rechargeable batteries, support equipment and spare and repair parts.

The agency said the prime contractor for the Javelin system is a joint venture between Lockheed Martin and Raytheon but there would be no need for contractor or U.S. government personnel being assigned to the Middle Eastern country.

"This proposed sale will contribute to the foreign policy and national security of the United States by helping to improve the security of a friendly country that has been and continues to be an important force for political stability and economic progress in the Middle East," it said.