Morocco seeks tank upgrades

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WASHINGTON, June 20 (UPI) -- The government of Morocco is seeking the refurbishment and enhancement of 200 M1A1 Abrams tanks provided as U.S. Excess Defense Articles.

The transfer of the U.S. tanks to Morocco was reported to Congress in April 2011.

Refurbishment and enhancement of the tanks to the Special Armor configuration -- plus associated parts, logistical support and training -- is worth about $1 billion, the U.S. Defense Security Cooperation Agency said.

Included in the package deal would be 150 AN/VRC-87E and 50 AN/VRC-89E exportable single-channel ground and airborne radio systems; 200 M2 Chrysler mount machine guns and 400 7.62MM M240 machine guns.

More than 12 million rounds of ammunition, 200 M250 smoke grenade launchers, support equipment, spare and repair parts would be included.

"This package of M1A1 tank enhancements will contribute to the modernization of Morocco's tank fleet, enhancing its ability to meet current and future threats," the agency said in its notification to Congress. "These tanks will contribute to Morocco's goal of updating its military capability while further enhancing interoperability with the U.S. and other allies."

The prime contractor would be General Dynamics Land Systems.